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The South African Police Service in the Eastern Cape has launched a manhunt after two police officers were brutally killed in the early hours of Friday, 18 September 2026, at Ziphunzana Location, Libode, near Mthatha.

The deceased members aged 51 and 30 years old are from Mthatha National Intervention Unit, and Mthatha Public Order Policing Unit. Their names will be released once next-of-kin notification is completed.

It is alleged that armed suspects were attacking a spaza shop and demanding money from the shop operator. The two members responded to a call for assistance and were later found with gunshot wounds. Both their service pistols were missing. A cordless grinder used to cut the shop’s burglar door was found at the scene.

The matter is being investigated as two counts of murder, two counts of attack on police, two counts of robbery of police firearms and one count of attempted business robbery.

A multi-disciplinary team is on the scene, and a 72-hour plan has been activated to trace and arrest the suspects. Preliminary intelligence is being followed up.

“The brutal murder of our members is an attack on the State, and we will not rest until those responsible are arrested and prosecuted,” said the Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata. “We send our deepest condolences to their families and colleagues, and we will support them through this difficult time.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information may also be submitted via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated confidentially.

Issued by South African Police Service