A security officer was shot and killed while responding to a robbery incident at the Lebowakgomo shopping complex outside Polokwane on Tuesday. Limpopo police launched a manhunt for a group of armed men who robbed the shopping complex and killed the guard.

“The victim had responded to a robbery in progress at a cash loan company at Lebowakgomo shopping complex outside Polokwane when he was shot,” Limpopo provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said.

“According to the preliminary information, four suspects stormed into the company and demanded cash at gunpoint. They then took an undisclosed amount of cash and when the security officer arrived at the scene, a shoot-out ensued between him and the suspects.”

The 48-year-old security officer was wounded and was certified dead on the scene. One of the robbers was also wounded during the shootout and his accomplices assisted him before they fled the scene.

Police said the robbers fled in a charcoal Ford Ranger double cab vehicle with Mpumalanga registration numberplates. Provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has ordered “an immediate probe” into the robbery and murder of the security officer.

“Police request anyone with information that can assist with the arrest of the suspects to come forward. They are also requested to provide information about the suspect who had sustained a gunshot wound and might be admitted at a hospital,” the police appealed.

People with information can go to or contact their nearest police station, the Crime Stop number on 086-001-0111, or use the My SAPS App.

In other news – Mark Ballas and wife BC Jean welcome their first child together

Mark Ballas and BC Jean have officially welcomed their first child together, a son, into the world. On Tuesday, the Dancing With the Stars alum, 37, and his singer-songwriter wife, 36, announced the birth of their baby boy, Banksi, on social media.

“Welcome to Earth my son,” the season 31 Mirrorball Trophy winner wrote. “Banksi Wylde Ballas 11 / 5 / 23.” Read More