SAPS officers risked their lives in daring rescue

Thabazimbi - On Friday evening 7 July, at around 20:30, four South African Police Services (SAPS) members swiftly responded to a distress call involving domestic violence at a residence on 8th Avenue.  
Upon their arrival at the residence where a woman sought protection from her husband against whom she had a restraining order, captain Mpandeni Nkuna, constable Freddy Modiba, sergeant Sello Somo, and constable Maite Sibanda were refused entry by the husband.
Captain Nkuna and constable Modiba scaled the walls of the residence, discovering that the accused had barricaded himself inside a car. The man resorted to consuming petrol and dousing himself with it. Displaying remarkable courage, captain Nkuna and constable Modiba made valiant attempts to remove him from the vehicle. Tragically, an explosion occurred within the car, possibly resulting from a deodorant canister or a container with additional petrol - however forensic investigations are underway.
Constable Modiba sustained injuries from the ensuing flames, which meant that he required immediate medical attention. He was admitted to Thabazimbi Mediclinic on July 7 and was thankfully discharged the following day. However, Captain Nkuna suffered more severe injuries, necessitating his admission to Thabazimbi Mediclinic. There, he received extensive treatment for severe burns.
Currently, the accused remains in critical condition at the Garden City Clinic while facing charges of attempted murder. As we collectively grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, our thoughts and prayers extend to the loved ones of the injured. The selfless acts of these police officers in the line of duty will not be forgotten. We hope and pray that their recovery will be complete and swift.