| 2025/01/05 |
|
Media Statement FREE STATE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) is deeply saddened and outraged by the brutal killing of two dedicated police officers in the line of duty on the night of 4 January 2025 in Namahadi, Free State. Preliminary reports indicate that at approximately 22:00, 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. 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 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. Particulars of the deceased members will be shared as soon as their loved ones are formally informed. “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.
For any information regarding this incident, please contact the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.
Enquiries:
|
|
|
