Detective killed, colleague critically wounded in Mthatha ambush
Two officers from Madeira Detective Unit were shot outside a residence after suspects waited two hours before attack.
Detective killed, colleague critically wounded in Mthatha ambush
Two officers from Madeira Detective Unit were shot outside a residence after suspects waited two hours before attack.
A male detective was killed and a female officer critically wounded when gunmen ambushed them outside a residence in New Brighton, Ngangelizwe, Mthatha, on Wednesday afternoon123. The two officers, both attached to the Madeira Detective Unit, were shot at approximately 16:30 while returning home from duty13.
The male officer sustained gunshot wounds to the upper body and head and died at the scene13. The female officer remained in critical condition in hospital12. Police said the names of the officers would be released once next-of-kin notification was completed12.
According to preliminary investigations, a white Volkswagen Polo was observed parked a short distance from the scene about two hours before the attack3. Two men exited the vehicle, approached the officers' white Isuzu bakkie, and fired multiple shots at both occupants3. The suspects then fled in the Polo towards the R61 highway in the direction of Port St Johns3.
The wounded policewoman called for help after the shooting3. Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that cases of murder and attempted murder had been opened3. The motive for the attack remained unknown3.
Eastern Cape police were combing the crime scene for clues2. Gantana urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App12.