The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) General Fannie Masemola has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of a police trainee at the SAPS Tactical Thabazimbi Academy on Sunday, 20 November 2022. 

While an internal investigation is underway, the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). 

Psychologists, Social Workers and Chaplains from the Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) component are currently providing psychosocial support to the family of the deceased and all affected.​ 

General Masemola has pledged the organization's full cooperation and support to the IPID investigation. 

"This is an unfortunate incident, we request space to conduct a thorough investigation to be able to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. We pledge our full support to the family of the deceased and all affected", concluded General Fannie Masemola. 

Issued by Colonel Athlenda Mathe on behalf of SAPS, 22 November 2022