Two Mozambican nationals have been arrested after police recovered two firearms stolen from officers who were shot and killed in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, last week.
According to police, an intelligence-driven operation led investigators to an SAPS-issued 9mm pistol and an R5 rifle. Both weapons were confirmed to be the guns taken from Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja before they were murdered on Friday night.
In response to the killings, police mobilised specialised teams, including Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team and the Hawks, to track down both the suspects and the missing firearms. The operation led officers to Tembisa and Mamelodi East, where the weapons and several rounds of ammunition were recovered.
The two arrested suspects are expected to face charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Investigations into the murders of the two officers are still underway, and police say more arrests are expected.
The search continues for additional suspects as well as a second missing 9mm pistol.
Police leadership has welcomed the breakthrough. The national commissioner praised the teams for their swift response and stressed that attacks on police officers undermine the authority of the state. He also revealed that from April to September this year, six officers were killed in the line of duty, and reassured the public that SAPS is working to ensure officers receive the resources and training needed to protect themselves and communities.
The two officers killed in Ivory Park were on crime-prevention duties when they were ambushed. Their attackers fled the scene with their service pistols, a rifle, and two cellphones. Police have vowed to bring everyone involved to justice.
Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities through the national crime-stop number or the Ivory Park station commander.