FILE PHOTO
Two police officers were shot and killed when they responded to a house robbery complaint in Namahadi in the Free State.
Spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele said police are not only saddened, but also outraged by what he said was the brutal killing of two dedicated officers who died in the line of duty.
The incident took place on Saturday night at around 10pm, Brigadier Makhele said.
He said two members from the Namahadi Community Service Centre (CSC) responded to a house robbery complaint in Mangaung Village.
“The two members were supported by a Crime Prevention vehicle with three members.
“Upon arriving at the scene, two suspects fled the house, prompting a chase by the Crime Prevention team. Meanwhile, the CSC members approached the house, where one suspect emerged and opened fire.
“One member was fatally shot and his service pistol was taken by the suspect.”
Brigadier Makhele said as the pursuit continued, another suspect ambushed the driver of the backup vehicle while he was reversing the police vehicle. “He was shot in the neck and succumbed to his injuries. The other police officers in the vehicle were unharmed.”
The suspects, whose faces were covered with balaclavas, also allegedly stole two cell phones and undisclosed amount of cash from the victim of the house robbery.
The suspects remain at large, and the investigation is ongoing.
"On behalf of SAPS, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the two constables. Their sacrifice in service to their community will never be forgotten," said the Provincial Commissioner of the police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane.
