Four private security officers have been arrested for attempted murder, malicious damage to property, and intimidation following a violent altercation at Nhlazatshe Crossing in Elukwatini earlier this week.

According to a police statement issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, the incident occurred on 4 November 2025, when the guards allegedly stopped a vehicle driven by a man and demanded to search it. The driver reportedly refused, leading to a heated argument.

It is alleged that the security officers then began pelting the vehicle with stones and fired several gunshots at the driver, who managed to escape unharmed and reported the matter to the police.

The suspects — Phumlani Muzi Nene (31), Mongameli Xaba (29), Mhlengu Shange (32) and Siyabonga Zondo (29) — were arrested later the same day. During the arrest, police confiscated four firearms, including two semi-automatic rifles, a shotgun, a pistol, and 104 live rounds of ammunition.

The men appeared briefly before the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court on 5 November 2025, where they were remanded in custody. They are expected to return to court on 12 November 2025 for a formal bail application.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests and praised officers for their swift response.

“We commend our members for their unwavering dedication and commitment in ensuring that the law is upheld, regardless of who is involved,” said Mkhwanazi.

Police investigations into the matter are continuing.