Manhunt launched after Eastern Cape detective killed in targeted ambush

Eastern Cape police have launched a massive manhunt for two suspects following the murder of a police detective and the attempted murder of his partner in Ngangelizwe, outside Mthatha.

The two detectives were reportedly shot in the New Brighton area on Wednesday night.

According to police reports, two gunmen emerged from a vehicle that had been surveilling the officers for several hours prior to the attack. Investigators recovered several spent cartridges from the scene.

Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Nobuntu Gantana, provided details on the lead-up to the violence.

“According to preliminary investigations, a white Volkswagen Polo was seen parked a short distance from the scene about two hours before the attack. Two males exited the Polo, approached the Isuzu, and fired multiple shots at both officers.”

Gantana confirmed that while one officer died at the scene, the second officer is currently fighting for her life.

“The deceased police officer sustained gunshot wounds to the upper body and head and died at the scene. The injured police officer, who managed to call for help despite her injuries, was rushed to the hospital by a responding officer and remains in critical condition,” Gantana said.