An off-duty police officer in the Limpopo province has been hospitalized following an unfortunate incident in the Jane Furse area on Tuesday, January 14. The officer, a Warrant Officer stationed in Burgersfort, was parked in his white Toyota Hilux near the library gardens when he was approached by five individuals.
According to Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the group engaged with the officer, and in the process, he was injured and left unconscious. The suspects reportedly took his service pistol and two cellphones before leaving the scene.
A passer-by noticed the injured officer and immediately contacted emergency services. He was swiftly transported to a local hospital for medical attention, while police recovered two spent cartridges from the scene.
The suspects are still at large, and authorities have launched a manhunt to track them down. Police are urging the public to assist with any information that may lead to the suspects’ identification and capture.
Provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed concern over the incident and is calling on the community to come forward with any leads. The investigation is ongoing, and police have mobilized resources to ensure the safety and well-being of their officers.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Captain Fana Mkhwanazi at 082 319 9526, Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or share tips via the MySAPS App.