Five suspects arrested in connection with Middelburg hospital shooting

Following an alleged attack on security personnel working at Middelburg Provincial Hospital on Thursday, July 21, five individuals were detained.

According to Captain Tebogo Thebe of the South African Police Service (SAPS), a different set of security guards from a different firm allegedly attacked the hospital’s security personnel on Thursday between 14:00 and 15:00.

“No serious injuries were sustained however one guard was treated for injuries then later discharged from hospital. It is further alleged that rubber bullets were used,” said Thebe.

After the incident was reported to the Middelburg police station, five individuals, ranging in age from 26 to 40, were taken into custody.

The five suspects are accused with assault with the intent to cause great bodily harm and firing a handgun in public.

Additionally, there are claims that a live round of ammunition was discharged during the incident, which the police are looking into.

“The behaviour displayed at the hospital can never be tolerated or accepted especially coming from the security officers or any officer of the law. Instead, members of the security cluster should be exemplary in conduct. We hope that the law will take its course,” said Mpumalanga police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Semakaleng Manamela.

On the aforementioned charges, the detained suspects are soon due to appear in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court.