An Eastern Cape police constable has appeared in court after allegedly stabbing two men, stealing two vehicles and later opening fire at colleagues at Majola Police Station.
The 24-year-old officer faces four counts of attempted murder, theft of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and charges linked to the alleged weekend stabbings and vehicle thefts.
According to the South African Police Service, the incidents started over the weekend of Saturday, 23 May and Sunday, 24 May 2026.
SAPS said the constable allegedly stabbed two different men during separate quarrels.
He is also accused of forcibly taking two private vehicles. Police said one vehicle was crashed, while the other rolled into water.
No cases were reported at the time, according to SAPS.
Victims went to police station
The matter escalated on Monday, 25 May, when the two alleged victims went to Majola Police Station to discuss damages linked to the weekend incidents.
During that meeting, police said the constable allegedly forced open a colleague’s safe and took her firearm.
He then allegedly opened fire on police management and the complainants.
The Acting Station Commander was shot below the left arm. SAPS said the officer was in a stable condition.
Shootout before arrest
A shootout followed between the constable and other police members.
SAPS said the suspect fled into nearby bushes after the shooting.
He was later arrested.
The police report said the constable now faces charges including four counts of attempted murder, theft of a firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm.
He also faces charges related to the alleged stabbings and vehicle thefts that happened over the weekend.
Police commissioner condemns attack
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata strongly condemned the incident.
“This conduct is criminal and a betrayal of the SAPS uniform,” Ncata said.
He warned that police officers who break the law will not be protected from prosecution.
“Any member who breaks the law will be arrested and face justice like any other suspect. No leniency,” he said.
The case has placed fresh focus on police conduct and accountability, especially when officers are accused of using state resources or weapons in violent crimes.