The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) strongly condemns the attack on its officers by members of the community in Winterveldt.
The incident occurred when TMPD officers from Region 1 Sector 1 in Mabopane were conducting by-law enforcement operations in the area, focusing on business compliance on Saturday, 24 January 2026.
The officers visited a Pakistani national’s shop to enforce by-laws, where they encountered resistance from the shop owner and another male who closed and locked the shop while the officers were inside.
The City of Tshwane Emergency Service was called to assist in opening the shop for inspection.
During the inspection, it was discovered that the shop owner was selling alcohol and running an illegal gambling business without the required licences. As a result, alcohol was confiscated.
This action led to a violent response from members of the community, who began throwing stones at the officers in an attempt to prevent officers from carrying out their duties. As a result of the attack, three TMPD officers were stabbed, private vehicles were damaged, and tyres were stabbed to prevent officers from leaving.
In response to the escalating situation, the TMPD and SAPS Public Order Policing were called for backup, leading to the arrest of the shop owner. The shop owner, a Pakistani national, was found to be in the country illegally and will be handed over to the Department of Home Affairs – Immigration in terms of Act 13 of 2002. Three individuals are currently facing charges of attempted murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, interference with police officers, and public violence.
Additional charges are under investigation.
TMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Vusi Yoyo, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and cowardly. He emphasized that the TMPD will not tolerate any form of lawlessness and will not hesitate to take action against those who seek to disrupt the peace and order in the City of Tshwane.
Issued by the Tshwane Metro Police Department Communication Unit
The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) strongly condemns the attack on its officers by members of the community in Winterveldt.https://t.co/nNfBTbkPau#ArriveAlive #Crime @TMPDSafety pic.twitter.com/vfIfYnxDGb
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) January 25, 2026
