Two law enforcement officers allegedly employed by the City of Mbombela and a former South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member have been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a woman in Mjejane, Mpumalanga.

According to provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the 45-year-old woman was attacked at her home on 21 March by a group of approximately nine individuals armed with pangas, rocks and other weapons.

Ndubane stated that the woman immediately recognised two of her attackers as municipal law enforcers she had previously seen working within the City of Mbombela. During the incident, one of the suspects allegedly pointed a firearm at her, threatened to kill her and forced her into a bakkie. The second suspect is said to have grabbed the weapon from his colleague and shot the woman in her right hand.

“She was taken to hospital where she is currently recovering,” confirmed Ndubane.

Following the incident, a case of attempted murder was registered at Komatipoort SAPS, prompting an investigation that led to the arrest of three suspects. During the operation, police confiscated two firearms from one of the accused. Preliminary findings revealed that one of the weapons is state-issued, while the other is legally licensed for private use.

The three suspects are expected to appear before the Komatipoort Magistrate’s Court on 24 March. They will face charges of attempted murder and violation of a Protection Order. However, Ndubane noted that additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses.

“The investigation is still active, and we cannot rule out the possibility of more charges,” she added.

Police are also pursuing six other individuals believed to have been involved in the attack. Authorities are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist in locating the remaining suspects.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the My SAPS mobile application.