The South African Police Service (SAPS) has condemned the brutal killing of two police officers, who lost their lives in the line of duty on Saturday, 4 January 2025, in Namahadi, in the Free State.
Preliminary reports indicate that at around 10pm, two officers from the Namahadi Community Service Centre (CSC) responded to a complaint about a house robbery in Mangaung village.
They were supported by a crime prevention vehicle, which had three additional members on board.
“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.”
According to the SAPS, the suspects, whose faces were covered with balaclavas, also stole two cellphones and an undisclosed amount of cash from the victim of the house robbery.
The police said the suspects remain at large, and the investigation is ongoing.
The details 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 Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane.
For any information regarding this incident, please contact the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. – SAnews.gov.za
