Update: Negotiations continue with armed police officer holding family hostage in Mamelodi
Family held hostage by police officer in Mamelodi East.
Image: File
Police negotiators are continuing to engage with the 32-year-old police Constable who is currently holding his family hostage in Buffer Zone of Mamelodi East in Tshwane, Gauteng.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili, the situation began around 8 am on Tuesday when the officer allegedly held his family hostage.
Major General Samuel Thine, Tshwane District Commissioner, provided an update, stating that the Constable from Boschkop Police Station is cooperating and has asked to see his girlfriend and brother.
"The negotiators and special task forces are at the scene and trying to call him down and see if we can resolve the situation," he said.
Speaking to the SABC, Major General Thine described the mission as challenging due to the standoff lasting from morning until evening.
"When the first responders came the Constable was aggressive...We are still not sure if anyone is injured. The latest is that he is now calm and able to talk." he said.
Earlier, Muridili said the Constable allegedly discharged two shots prior to the police's arrival on the scene, further escalating the gravity of the situation.
She said the hostages include the constable's grandmother, his nephew, and a young boy.
"The police on the scene are also investigating the motive which led to this situation," she added.
*This is a developing story
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