Police in KwaZulu-Natal are investigating after a man was shot dead inside the Community Service Centre (CSC) of the Esikhaleni Police Station in Empangeni.

According to police, the incident unfolded on Thursday when the suspect entered the station under the pretext of seeking assistance. He then allegedly attempted to wrestle a firearm away from a female officer.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda explained that the officer’s service pistol was secured with a retention cord, preventing the suspect from taking it.

“The suspect then drew out his own weapon and pointed it at the officer, attempting to shoot her,” Netshiunda said.

In response, another police officer at the scene opened fire to protect his colleague and other civilians inside the CSC. The suspect was fatally wounded and declared dead on the scene.

“Police in KwaZulu-Natal have opened an inquest docket after a man who attempted to shoot a police officer inside a police station was shot and fatally wounded,” Netshiunda confirmed.

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and investigations into the incident continue.