Police in Mpumalanga are investigating a harrowing attack where two siblings were shot and robbed after they stopped to offer help to individuals in what appeared to be a broken-down vehicle along the R40 road. The incident occurred early on Sunday, 2 November 2024, near a nature reserve.

According to Captain Magonseni Nkosi, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga provincial police, the two siblings were travelling along the R40 when they noticed a vehicle parked by the roadside. They recognised the car, which led them to believe the people inside might need assistance. Acting on this assumption, the siblings pulled over around 2:20 a.m. to offer help.

However, immediately after they stopped, they came under gunfire from the parked vehicle. “The driver was shot in his lower body, while his brother sustained injuries from a gunshot to his back,” Nkosi reported.

The attacker then approached the siblings and robbed them of a firearm. Despite his injuries, one of the victims managed to drive them both to a hospital to seek urgent medical assistance. Tragically, one of the brothers succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, while the condition of the other sibling remains unclear at this time.

The police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect or suspects involved in this brutal attack. Police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible to come forward. Lieutenant Colonel Busisiwe Kunene is leading the investigation, and members of the public who may have seen anything suspicious around the time of the incident are encouraged to contact her on 082 422 8189. Additionally, the Crime Stop line can be reached at 08600 10111, and individuals can provide anonymous tips through the My SAPS app. Police have assured the public that all information will be handled with strict confidentiality.

The acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has expressed his condolences to the affected family and advised community members to be cautious when considering stopping to help people in stranded vehicles, especially late at night. “It is advisable for community members to prioritise their safety and, if in doubt, to call the police for assistance rather than potentially putting their lives in danger,” Mkhwanazi stated.

This incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by Good Samaritans, as criminals sometimes use deception to lure in unsuspecting helpers. The police’s appeal serves as a stark reminder for community members to exercise caution on the roads, particularly when travelling at odd hours. Mkhwanazi underscored the need for vigilance and urged the public to think carefully before approaching vehicles in distress and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.

This case remains under active investigation as police work to track down the suspect or suspects involved in the attack. The Mpumalanga police have pledged to utilise all available resources to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.