The 32-year-old police officer shot and injured during a recent house robbery in Mfuleni has died. Constable Unathi Makananda was shot on 26 June while at home with his girlfriend and friends.
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It is believed that four armed men entered the home at around 4am, claiming to be looking for somewhere to buy beers.
Makananda, who was stationed at Kleinvlei, was shot in the hip by the suspects, who demanded his firearm.
‘There were complications while he was in hospital which resulted in him slipping into a coma,’ a source close to the investigation told IOL. ‘His brain was swollen and there was nothing that could be done about it.’
‘On Tuesday morning, after we had our morning meeting, we were informed about the constable’s death. We are all devastated about this news.’
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Mfuleni SAPS spokesperson, November Filander, said that according to preliminary information, at the time of the incident, the police officer was in the lounge of his house, accompanied by his girlfriend and two other males.
‘At approximately 4am, there was a knock at the door. The police constable opened the door and was confronted by four armed males who forcibly entered the premises.’
‘The suspects were armed with a firearm and demanded the member’s firearm. However, he indicated that he did not possess a firearm.’
He added that the assailants robbed the four of their cellphones, cash and a flatscreen television.
‘Before fleeing the scene, they cold-heartedly shot the police constable in the hip. Also, the suspects took the vehicle keys, but were unable to operate the vehicle and left it behind. They fled in an unknown direction,’ Filander said.
He urged anyone with information to call Detective Sergeant Simpiwe Thaubeni at 082 237 8829, Crime Stoppers at 08600 10111, or the Mfuleni SAPS at 021 909 9500 in order to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
‘We urge the community to remain vigilant and co-operative during this investigation.’
‘The safety and security of our police officers and community members are of paramount importance to us, and we will spare no effort in ensuring that justice is served.’
‘Further updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available,’ Filander said.
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