The South African Police Service (SAPS) has condemned the tragic killing of two police officers in Namahadi, Free State, on Saturday, 4 January 2025, in what appears to have been a brutal and calculated attack. According to initial reports, the officers were performing their duties when they were ambushed and murdered while responding to a distress call.
The incident unfolded around 10 PM when officers from the Community Service Center (CSC) arrived at a home in Mangaung village following a complaint of a home invasion. The scene quickly escalated as a crime prevention unit with additional personnel provided backup. Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects, who were wearing balaclavas to conceal their identities, had already carried out the home invasion, during which they stole two cell phones and an undisclosed sum of money from the victim.
Upon arriving at the scene, the police officers encountered a situation that rapidly turned violent. As they approached the house, two suspects reportedly fled, prompting a pursuit by the backup team. Meanwhile, one of the CSC members was tragically confronted by another suspect who emerged from the house and opened fire without warning. The officer was fatally shot, and his service weapon was taken by the assailant.
In a further escalation of violence, the situation grew even more deadly. As the backup vehicle was reversing, another suspect ambushed the police officers inside, targeting the driver. The officer was shot in the neck and later succumbed to his injuries. Fortunately, the other members in the vehicle were unharmed, though deeply shaken by the harrowing sequence of events.
The SAPS has vowed to continue their investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. With the suspects still at large, police have intensified their efforts to track them down. The authorities have also expressed their deep condolences to the families and colleagues of the fallen officers, while reaffirming their commitment to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of their members.
As the investigation progresses, the SAPS is appealing to the public for any information that could aid in the capture of those responsible for the senseless killings. The murder of these officers has shocked the community, underscoring the dangers law enforcement faces on a daily basis in their commitment to protect and serve. The police service has called for greater support from the public to help bring the perpetrators to justice, and to ensure that such violence does not go unpunished.
