Cape Town - A Cape Town man has been shot dead in a tussle between two police officers and a crowd, Western Cape police said on Monday.
Lt-Col Andre Traut said the two officers were called out to Bishop Lavis around 5.30pm on Sunday to investigate a shooting complaint.
“Upon arrival, the police members were approached by a riotous group of people who smashed their vehicle's windows and assaulted the members while they were trapped inside the vehicle,” he said.
While the police were trying to disarm the group a shot went off, killing 34-year-old Jerome Brown.
Traut said the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) was investigating the death. Spokesman Moses Dlamini was not immediately aware of the matter.
The two police officers had been admitted to hospital and were recovering from their injuries. Additional officers were sent to the area to restore order.
Traut said the tussle was a deliberate attempt by local residents to intimidate police officers and protect gang members.
“As yet, no one has been arrested in connection with the attack on our members... We will not allow violence to be perpetrated against police officers and every endeavour will be made to bring those responsible to book.”
Sapa