Mpumalanga police have launched a manhunt for those responsible for shooting two on-duty police officers.
The two officers, aged 38 and 42, were shot and wounded while on patrol on Monday at Block C in Tonga near Komatipoort, said Hawks spokesperson Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi.
It appears the officers interrupted a burglary, and a shootout took place.
“According to the information received, the members were on duty, doing a routine patrol when they unknowingly drove by a business burglary that was in progress. Upon noticing the police vehicle, the suspects opened fire and a shootout ensued,” Sekgotodi said.
The police officers were rushed to hospital.
Sekgotodi said no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.
“The police in Mpumalanga request anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to please contact the investigating officers Lieutenant Colonel Erhard Stroh on 082 300 8315 or Warrant Officer Mduduzi Aubrey Motubatse on 072 195 0185 or call the Crime Stop number 08600 10111,” Sekgotodi said.
Mpumalanga Hawks head Major General Zodwa Mokoena strongly condemned the incident.
“An attack on the police is an attack on the state. We will, therefore, not leave any stone unturned, and we will ensure that those who commit such heinous acts against our officers in blue are found and face the full might of the law,” Mokoena said.
news24.com
