SAPS trainee killed during firearm training

Thabazimbi – A 26-year-old South African Police Service (SAPS) trainee was tragically killed at the Thabazimbi Tactical Academy (also known as the Verdragt SAPS Training Academy) on Sunday 20 November 2022.

It is alleged that an instructor was doing a demonstration on how to handle a firearm when a shot went off which instantly killed the young soon-to-be officer who was set to graduate in December.

According to police spokesperson colonel Athlenda Mathe, the SAPS national commissioner general Fannie Masemola has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of the trainee, who was part of the SAPS major drive to recruit 10,000 police officers.

The case has also been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for an internal investigation. General Masemola has pledged the organisation’s full cooperation and support in the investigation.

“This is an unfortunate incident; we request space to conduct a thorough investigation to be able to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. We pledge our full support to the family of the deceased and all affected,” concluded general Masemola.

Phycologists, social workers and chaplains from SAPS’ Employee Health and Wellness department are currently providing psychosocial support to the family of the deceased and all affected.

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