STATEMENT BY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS: FATAL SHOOTING INCIDENT AT THE AIR FORCE COLLEGE IN THABA THSWANE

Date of Release: 08 November 2007
Embargo : None

The Department of Defence regrets to announce that an officer from the South African Air Force was shot and killed, and another officer seriously injured following a shooting incident at the SA Air Force College, Thaba Thswane. The incident occurred at approximately 12:40 today, 08 November 2007.

Following the shooting, a suspect left the premises and has since handed himself over to the Wierdabrug Police Station, and is in custody. The second officer sustained gunshot wounds and is being treated in 1 Military Hospital, his condition is critical but stable.

The SA Police Service is on the scene and is investigating the shooting incident.

The name of the deceased officer will be released once his next of kin have been notified.

The Minister of Defence, Mr Mosiuoa Lekota, on behalf of the Department of Defence and the Chief of the SANDF, General Godfrey Ngwenya have extended their sincerest sympathies and condolences to the families of the deceased and injured.

ENDS

Issued by : Department of Defence
Private Bag X161
Pretoria
0001

Telephone : (012) 355 6302 or 072 538 6888

Enquiries : Brigadier General Kwena Mangope