Robbery Suspect Shot Dead in Qonce After Alleged Attempt to Disarm Security Guard

A robbery suspect was shot dead in Qonce (King William’s Town) on Friday after he and an accomplice allegedly attempted to rob a security guard of his firearm. According to police, the incident unfolded at the busy corner of Maclean and Downing streets, an area frequently used by workers and taxi commuters during peak hours.

Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed that the shooting occurred while the guard was on duty and waiting for a colleague. The early-stage investigation suggests the men tried to overpower him, leading to a confrontation that turned fatal.

Guard Reportedly Attacked While Standing Watch

Police said the security guard was positioned outside a business premises, observing parked vehicles when two unknown men approached him. It is alleged that the pair attempted to disarm him, leading to a struggle during which the guard fired three shots.

One of the men, believed to be in his 30s, sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. His accomplice fled immediately and is still being sought by police. No further injuries were reported.

The circumstances surrounding how quickly the confrontation escalated, whether any verbal threats were made, and the exact sequence of events will form part of the investigation.

Police Confirm Two Cases Opened

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened two dockets:

• A case of attempted robbery, relating to the alleged attack on the security guard.

• An inquest docket, which is standard procedure when a person is killed and circumstances must be fully investigated.

At this stage, police have not released the deceased’s identity, as next-of-kin formalities are still underway. The surviving suspect is expected to face charges once arrested.

Police have also appealed to the public to come forward with any information that may assist in tracing the runaway suspect, especially as the incident happened in a public area where bystanders may have witnessed the confrontation.

Crime Concerns in Qonce’s CBD

Qonce’s central business district has long struggled with opportunistic street robberies, with business owners and security personnel frequently reporting attempts to snatch goods, break into vehicles, or target individuals carrying valuables.

While security guards are trained to respond to threats, attempts to disarm them are particularly dangerous situations. The removal of a service firearm poses a significant risk to the public, and security officers often undergo mandatory training to handle high-pressure confrontations.

The shooting has reignited discussions around safety in the CBD, with community members calling for improved patrol visibility and stronger crime prevention strategies.

What Happens Next in the Investigation

The inquest process will examine:

• Whether the security guard acted within the limits of self-defence.

• The exact manner in which the firearm was discharged.

• Whether there were any witnesses whose statements could clarify the incident.

• The conduct of both the guard and the suspects before the shooting.

The attempted robbery case will run alongside the inquest, focusing on identifying, tracing and arresting the fleeing accomplice.

Once forensic and ballistic reports are completed, the findings will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further decision-making.

Community Reaction and Safety Measures

Friday’s incident has heightened concern among residents who say the area has seen an increase in criminal activity during early mornings and late afternoons. Several business owners expressed fears about crime targeting both workers and customers.

Local security companies in Qonce have previously warned that criminals often target guards specifically for their firearms, which can be used to commit further violent crimes.

Safety analysts note that while incidents like this draw attention, they also reaffirm the high-risk nature of private security work in South Africa — a country with one of the largest private security industries in the world.

Police Urge Information

SAPS is urging anyone with relevant information to contact the nearest police station or use the Crime Stop hotline. Even small details, such as clothing descriptions or sightings of the fleeing suspect, may assist.

The investigation remains active and further updates will follow as more details emerge.