Ian Cameron, alongside fellow members of the South African police committee, Lisa Schickerling and Nicholas Gotsell, faced a terrifying ambush in the township of Philippi while returning from inspecting a police academy on Tuesday. The trio's vehicle was violently attacked when assailants smashed their windows with bricks, resulting in injuries to Cameron and Gotsell.
In response to the threat, Cameron opened fire, injuring one of the attackers. The police have since arrested two teenagers, aged 16 and 18, in connection with the attempted murder and hijacking. One suspect was apprehended later at a hospital while seeking medical treatment, while another was arrested at a nearby farm. Authorities continue to pursue a third suspect involved in the attack.
Cameron recounted the harrowing experience to Newzroom Afrika, stating that a brick shattered the car window and struck him in the face, initiating the violent confrontation. As the assault escalated, Cameron recognized the urgency of their situation and acted swiftly to defend himself and his colleagues.
In South Africa, individuals are permitted to carry firearms legally, provided they have the necessary licenses. Cameron, who appeared in an interview with visible injuries, explained that he suffered a broken lip and lost some teeth due to the attack, while Gotsell required a brief hospital stay after sustaining a head injury.
Gotsell praised Cameron's bravery during the incident, expressing gratitude for his decisive actions. The three MPs are members of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's second-largest party in the governing coalition, which has underscored the attack as indicative of the country's escalating crime rates.
