News24 | Community helps stabbed police officer arrest assailant in Polokwane

The 34-year-old man is expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday for stabbing an off-duty police officer in Polokwane. (Alfonso Nqunjana/News24)

Despite his injuries, a determined off-duty police officer who had been stabbed relentlessly pursued his assailant to bring him to justice.

The officer was standing next to his vehicle when the assailant approached him, stabbed him, and snatched the car keys from the ignition before attempting to flee, Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said.

“The courageous detective, who had sustained injuries, gave chase until he caught the suspect where a physical altercation ensued.

“The community promptly responded after noticing the commotion and assisted the victim,” Mashaba said.

The attack occurred on Thursday night in the Polokwane CBD.  

The suspect was arrested, and the injured officer was transported to the hospital.

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Cases of attempted murder and theft out of motor vehicle were opened.

“The officer is receiving medical attention and is in a stable condition,” Mashaba said.

The 34-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the attack, emphasising that violence against law enforcement officers would “not be tolerated”.

“We will not tolerate such barbaric acts of violence against our members. The positive response of our community members is highly commendable, and we are forever indebted to them for not turning a blind eye to the situation but assisting our members.

“We will ensure the suspect faces the full might of the law,” Hadebe said.