KWAZULU-NATAL – A manhunt is under way after two crime intelligence officers were shot in an ambush in Mount Edgecombe, north of Durban, on Thursday afternoon, leaving one officer dead and another critically injured.
The attack took place on Flanders Drive, near Cornubia Mall, when heavily armed suspects opened fire on the officers who were travelling in a white Toyota Hilux bakkie.
The driver of the vehicle died at the scene from gunshot wounds, while his colleague, who was also shot multiple times, was airlifted to hospital where he is receiving urgent medical care.
Reaction Unit South Africa officers who responded to reports of gunfire found the state vehicle extensively damaged by bullets. A significant number of spent cartridges were recovered at the scene, suggesting the suspects used high-calibre firearms in the attack.
Witnesses reported seeing a white Toyota Quantum used in the attack, though no arrests have been made and police have not yet released descriptions of the suspects.
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as an assault on the authority of the state and those who risk their lives fighting crime.
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“No stone will be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” Dimpane said.
The police service has deployed specialised units including crime intelligence operatives, detectives, the organised crime unit and highly trained officers to track down those responsible.
Major General Anthony Gopaul, acting deputy provincial commissioner for crime detection in KwaZulu-Natal, attended the scene. The motive for the attack remains under investigation.
The police service has deployed employee health and wellness experts including psychologists and chaplains to support the family and colleagues of the fallen officer.
The police extended condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased officer and wished the injured member a speedy recovery.
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