Bluff shooting update: Soldiers who shot civilians were Ramaphosa's guards

This article is an amended version of the original, which was published on Tuesday 15 January. It features updated information regarding developments with the Durban Bluff shooting.

Troubling developments have emerged from a KZN beach in the last week, after two women were severely injured in Durban Bluff on Sunday 13 January. It's reported that three SANDF soldiers openly armed and carrying weapons got into a heated argument before deciding to manage the situation with their firearms.

City Press unearthed some more details about the fiery exchange and found some absolute gems. It turns out that the soldiers were in fact bodyguards for Cyril Ramaphosa, and the president himself has been involved in trying to resolve the situation.

Bluff shooting: Latest developments reveal Ramaphosa connection Here's what we've learned over the past week:

The offenders are part of the SA Special Forces Brigade, but they currently work for as bodyguards for the president. They had recently been on duty following Cyril's address at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Five weapons seized including three R5 rifles and two pistols.

52 Bullet shells were discovered at the scene.

A case of attempted murder has been opened.

Bluff which is just outside of Durban South is a small enclave for tourists looking for a quiet visit to the seaside. However, that peace was shattered when an off-duty policeman and his family were targeted by the rogue military personnel. As TimesLive report, two of the officer's friends sustained injuries to the jaw and face which now require surgery.

Meanwhile, another innocent bystander was shot in the leg. No arrests have yet been made. Despite this very public and concerning course of action, the army have said this will remain a private matter:

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is aware of the incident under discussion and views it as a private matter which requires the involvement of the South African Police Service (SAPS). The matter has been referred for private investigation.

SANDF statement to Open News What lead to the SANDF shootout in Durban? It has been reported that the shoot-out was triggered shortly after the police officer and his family tried to leave the beach. When their car key broke off in the ignition, they asked the nearest people they could find for help. The SANDF soldiers were not in uniform at the time.

However, the situation deteriorated quickly. As both parties got into a heated argument, swearing and insults were used against the family. The soldiers are said to have then returned to their guesthouse, before firing at will towards the beach visitors.

However, the military-trained bodyguards claim the policeman pulled out his weapon first and fired, wounding a soldier on his thigh.

SANDF's efforts to keep this incident under wraps has also been met with criticism: The incident took place in a public venue and has become common knowledge. Cyril Ramaphosa paid a visit to SANDF on Tuesday to discuss the incident, and IPID are now trying to investigate the matter.

Tags: beachDurbanSANDFSouth Africa

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