Joe Coetzer: Heist hero shot by CIT robbers receives Angel help
Lieutenant Colonel Joe Coetzer was part of an operation that dismantled a cash-in-transit gang when he was shot and ultimately lost his leg.
Lieutenant Colonel Joe Coetzer has been at the forefront of fighting crime for most of his life. At the age of 55, he’s regarded by his colleagues as an iron-man, master marksman, seasoned, and brave.
Earlier this month, Coetzer was part of an operation that dismantled a cash-in-transit gang connected to several robberies and cash heists in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Gauteng.
On the night, members of the Hawks, SAPS tactical operations and task force surrounded a house in Makhado, used as a hide out by the gang of robbers. A gun battle of over an hour ensued. Coetzer was wounded in the hand, was treated by medics, and then returned to battle. He's lost fingers on his “shooting-hand” before.
READ: Good Morning Angels Golf Day raises R4.2-million to Change Lives for Good
Towards the end of the fight, Coetzer was shot in the right leg. He lost a lot of blood and was evacuated by helicopter in critical condition.
Coetzer survived, but this time, his bravery cost him his right leg.
He is still in hospital, where he is being treated for several gun wounds - but he’s in good spirits and getting stronger every day.
Now his friends want to support their hero. As an avid golfer, Coetzer is a member at Zwartkops Golf Course and they've decided to hold a golf day in his honour to raise funds to assist with his changing needs and new physical reality.
READ: A study bursary and dream matric farewell for 16-year-old Michelle
After the success of the Good Morning Angels Golf day last week, they’ve reached out for some assistance.
You can also help here:
REQUEST FOR: Lt.Col Joe Coetzer
REQUEST FROM: Golfing legend, Dale Hayes
ANGEL: The Good Morning Angels Fund NPC
SPONSORING: The GMA fund will get the ball rolling for Joe Coetzer’s fund raising golf day on Friday, 15 September at Zwartkops Golf Course with a donation of R100 000
ORIGINAL REQUEST:
MAKHADO-A seasoned Hawks officer Lieutenant Colonel Joe Coetzer sustained multiple gunshot wounds during Friday’s intense firefight, resulting in the unfortunate loss of one of his legs.
This heroic determination occurred during the operation that led to the demise of 19 CIT robbers.
In a harrowing battle against a heavily armed gang of cash-in-transit robbers in Limpopo this week, a courageous member of the seasoned Hawks task force demonstrated unwavering determination.
Even after sustaining critical injuries, he valiantly returned to fight.
During the intense exchange of gunfire, which ultimately resulted in the demise of 19 criminals, Lieutenant-Colonel Joe Coetzer exhibited extraordinary courage.
Tragically, the cost of his heroism was the loss of his right leg
Police confirmed Coetzer was airlifted to hospital following the shootout where, despite medical intervention, surgeons could not save his leg.
He remains in a stable condition.
Tune in to the 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', weekdays from 06:00 - 09:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.