Police in Limpopo are investigating an inquest following a fatal shooting incident that occurred on Friday morning, 16 May 2025 at Foskor Mine in Phalaborwa.
At approximately 08:45, three detective officers from Limpopo and one from Gauteng province were conducting investigations related to a fraud case that originated in the Thohoyandou policing area earlier this month. The investigation led officers to a 32-year-old male suspect who was allegedly attempting to defraud the same victim again through a fraudulent tender for laboratory services.
Police officers, approached the suspect, who was reportedly preparing to provide what he claimed were contract documents. Upon realizing police presence, the suspect fled on foot. During the pursuit, a warning shot was discharged when the suspect attempted to scale a high security fence at the mine premises.
According to preliminary reports, when the suspect found himself unable to climb over the fence, he turned and allegedly grabbed the service firearm of the nearest police officer. A struggle ensued over control of the weapon, resulting in the discharge of the firearm. The suspect sustained gunshot wounds.
He was certified dead at the scene. The deceased was found wearing contractor’s uniform at the time of the incident.
A crime scene investigation was conducted at the Foskor Mine main gate. Two firearms connected to the incident have been seized as part of the investigation.
The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending further investigation.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified and will conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
