A POLICE constable allegedly shot a man and woman, and then turned the gun on himself in an alleged love triangle.
The 27-year-old constable, attached to the Roedtan cop shop, went to a rental apartment in Seshego zone 3 outside Polokwane, Limpopo, on Wednesday, 20 July.
He reportedly found the woman, believed to be his girlfriend, in the company of another man.
He then confronted them before shooting them dead and turning the gun on himself. All three were certified dead on the scene, where his service pistol was also found.
ALSO READ | PICS: Hobo's danger box home
Police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said they opened cases of two counts of murder and an inquest docket.
“It’s not clear what provoked the incident. But domestic-related challenges can’t be ruled out. Investigations are continuing,” said Ledwaba.
Provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has urged police members to seek professional help when faced with relationship challenges.
“Our members are urged to make use of available internal professionals, whose responsibility is to look after their health and wellness issues. Desist from resorting to extreme violence when dealing with challenges,” Hadebe said.
ALSO READ | AmaZulu soccer boss - I'm the change ANC needs
Transport and Community Safety MEC Polly Boshielo has strongly condemned the incident.
“This is very tragic. We encourage police officers to always seek help when experiencing problems. Our wellness sections are always ready to listen and offer professional assistance,” said Boshielo.
She added that psychosocial professionals will be made available to offer counselling to the affected families.