Response officer stabbed in a confrontation with an armed suspect

Response officer stabbed in a confrontation with an armed suspect

January 2, 2026 • News

A violent confrontation between a KZN VIP Response Officer and an armed suspect occurred on New Year’s Day in the Phoenix area.

KZN VIP Response Teams were dispatched to reports of a possible robbery in progress on Cardinal Road, Phoenix, shortly after 20:00. Upon arrival, the responding officer was informed by residents of the direction in which the suspect had fled and immediately gave chase.

The suspect fled into a dense bush area, where the officer continued the pursuit. During the chase, both the suspect and the Response Officer lost their footing, resulting in a violent physical altercation.

During the struggle, the suspect stabbed the KZN VIP Response Officer multiple times in the arm before fleeing the scene. Additional KZN VIP Response Units were immediately dispatched, and the KZN VIP Medical Team was activated and responded without delay. Response Units continued searching the area, and the suspect was subsequently apprehended.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) attended the scene. Following further investigation, a case of attempted murder and robbery was opened after an initial charge of common assault.

The injured KZN VIP Response Officer was transported to a medical facility in a stable condition for further medical treatment. KZN VIP Management wishes the officer a full and speedy recovery and commends his courage and dedication in the line of duty.

KZN VIP remains committed to protecting the communities we serve and continues to work closely with SAPS and community stakeholders to combat criminal activity.

KZN VIP Group
📞 24-Hour Control Centre: 031 502 3456
📞 Emergency Whatsapp 0677127976
📧 Email: [email protected]