Hostage Situation in Mamelodi East: Police Constable Holds Family Members Inside Home

Mamelodi East, Pretoria — A tense hostage drama is unfolding in the Mamelodi East Buffer Zone after a police constable allegedly took his own family members hostage early on Tuesday morning.

According to initial reports, the constable fired two shots before law enforcement arrived. He has since barricaded himself inside the home with his grandmother, nephew, and another young boy. Police confirmed that all three remain inside the house with the suspect.

READ: Mamelodi Hostage Situation: SAPS Police Constable Holds Family Captive, Shots Fired

Negotiators and Special Task Force Deployed

The SAPS Special Task Force, hostage negotiators, and other specialized units have been dispatched to the scene.

Police spokespersons say negotiators have established limited communication with the constable, but no breakthrough has yet been achieved.

On-the-ground reporter Patricia Fasak said the constable appeared frustrated, disoriented, and emotionally burdened, voicing grievances about family conflicts, his children’s mother, and personal issues he wants made public.

Although he has claimed he does not intend to harm anyone, he has reportedly said he wants his story to “go viral and be recognized.”

Family and Community in Distress

The constable’s mother, briefly allowed to speak to reporters, appeared exhausted and distressed after more than 12 hours in confinement, pleading for urgent assistance.

Community members expressed shock, describing the constable as a quiet, hardworking achiever. Many voiced concern for the safety of the hostages.

Police Handling the Crisis With Caution

Authorities have stressed the sensitivity of the operation, confirming that multidisciplinary teams—including negotiators, psychologists, and social workers—are involved.

Police have not confirmed whether the constable is armed with his service pistol, citing operational risks. Their primary objective remains clear: secure the safe release of all hostages without loss of life.

A SABC reporter noted that negotiators have managed to calm the suspect to some extent, but progress remains slow and delicate.

READ: Mamelodi Hostage Standoff Ends in Double Tragedy After 16-Hour Ordeal

Situation Remains Fluid

Authorities continue to monitor developments minute by minute. Updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.