CAPE TOWN - The Hawks are investigating a break-in at the SABC studios in Bloemfontein where the alleged intruder was shot by security on Sunday.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team was investigating business burglary, trespassing, malicious damage to property and intimidation following the arrest of a 27-year-old man by Parkweg police in the Bloemfontein SABC premises on Sunday morning.
“It is alleged that in the early hours of January 16, at about 4:30am, a security officer at the Bloemfontein SABC building noticed that there was an intruder inside the building and requested backup from other securities,” Mbambo said.
The suspect allegedly attacked the security officials, with one of the staff pulling out his official firearm and shooting the suspect.
“Parkweg SAPS and Emergency services were called to the scene and the suspect was taken to the local hospital for treatment where he is currently under police guard.
“A separate case of attempted murder will be investigated by Parkweg detectives. (The) investigation continues,” Mbambo said.
The SABC confirmed an intruder broke into its Bloemfontein office on Sunday morning, vandalising the building near its studios.
“On confrontation, a fight broke out, and a security officer fired a shot at the suspect, injuring his lower body. The suspect was taken to Pelonomi Hospital. No security officers or SABC employees on duty sustained any injuries during the incident,” the broadcaster said.
“The SABC commends its security officers for containing the situation and preventing further damage to its staff and property.”
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
Cape Times