Police Officer Gunned Down in Barbershop Robbery
The Hawks in Mpumalanga have initiated an urgent manhunt following the brutal killing of 29-year-old police constable Khulani Chabangu during an armed robbery at a barbershop in Lillydale, Culcatta, on Friday night.
Robbery Turns Deadly
According to preliminary information, two armed suspects stormed the barbershop at around 23h00. At the time, Constable Chabangu, the barber, and two clients were inside. The suspects allegedly forced everyone to lie on the ground before robbing them.
“They took cash from the barber and cellphones from the rest of the people inside,” a source close to the investigation said.
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Officer Stripped and Shot
The suspects reportedly singled out Constable Chabangu, forcing him to undress and hand over his clothes, car keys, and cellphone. He was then shot multiple times in the upper body.
Chabangu later succumbed to his injuries. His vehicle, which had been stolen during the robbery, was later found abandoned near the scene.
Hawks Take Over Investigation
The case has been transferred to the Hawks’ Nelspruit-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit. Authorities have confirmed that an intensive manhunt is underway for the suspects.
Call for Public Assistance
Police are urging members of the public who may have information on the suspects’ whereabouts to come forward.
Social Media Reacts
Here are some of the reactions;
@luyolomkentane;
So sad. Talk about senseless killing! So wish the murderer goes into hiding in KZN
@Mokongwane;
Barber at 11 pm? What were they cutting besides hair?
Rest in peace member, we will work on it.
@mursiwit;
@SAPoliceService please don’t let the slain officer down, find those bastards before his body is laid to rest. 😡😡😡💔💔