Rustenburg -
A man has been arrested for stabbing a policeman with a spear at Freedom Park near Rustenburg, North West police said on Thursday.
Brigadier Thulani Ngubane said police where conducting a cordon and search operation on Wednesday night aimed at stabilising the area prior to the elections.
“During the operation, one suspect was arrested after he stabbed a police official with a spear on the chest,” said Ngubane.
He said the police was saved by his bulletproof vest.
The arrested man was found in possession of a knife and dagga.
“He was arrested and charged with attempted murder, possession of dangerous weapon and dagga. He is expected to appear in court soon.”
During the arrest, the man fought with police and injured himself.
He was now in hospital under police guard.
During the police operation, sticks, iron rods and self-made sharp weapons were seized. The police also recovered counterfeit DVDs.
Provincial Commissioner Lt-Gen Zukiswa Mbombo said criminal behaviour and unruliness would not be tolerated.
“Intimidation and lawlessness will be rooted out especially to ensure safe, free and secured elections,” she said in a statement.
Mbombo said police were still looking for people behind the torching of a municipal building and two houses in Freedom Park last Sunday.
The house of ward councillor Tiego Makopo and the speaker of Rustenburg municipality, Boipelo Marekoa-Kodongo, were torched. Shops and an ATM were also looted at the time. - Sapa