Manhunt launched after police officer shot and killed in Mfuleni

Manhunt launched after police officer shot and killed in Mfuleni! The Western Cape police have initiated a large-scale manhunt for two suspects involved in the fatal shooting of Constable Ayanda Moyikwa, 32, during a robbery in Mfuleni on Sunday morning.

Tragic Loss While Responding to Duty

Constable Moyikwa, an off-duty officer, was on his way to work at Cape Town International Airport when he noticed a robbery in progress. Despite being off duty, he attempted to intervene but was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty.

He was later discovered by a colleague he had intended to pick up for their shift.

A Vow to Bring Justice

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner Thembisile Patekile, who visited the crime scene, condemned the senseless attack and vowed to use all available resources to apprehend the killers.

“What is so sad is that he was on his way to work and responded to the call of duty, only to meet his death at the age of 32. He was about to celebrate his 33rd birthday on Friday, January 17,” Patekile said.

The constable leaves behind a two-year-old child, who was to celebrate their birthday on Wednesday. Patekile remarked somberly, “It is heartbreaking to think that this birthday will now be marked without a father.”

Investigation and Community Appeal

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), known as the Hawks, has been tasked with leading the investigation. A dedicated team has already been assembled to track down the suspects.

Acting National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikili expressed outrage over the loss of life, particularly that of police officers. She called on communities to play an active role in assisting law enforcement.

“It is quite concerning that, in the space of 10 days, we have lost five police officers, all of them young constables recently recruited to bolster our teams and ensure community safety,” Mosikili said.

She added, “A life lost is one too many, and this violence against our men and women in blue must stop.”

Rising Violence Against Police

This tragic incident is part of a worrying trend of violence against law enforcement officers in South Africa. The loss of five officers in just 10 days underscores the dangerous environment in which police operate. Authorities and officials are united in calling for a nationwide effort to combat this scourge.

The murder of Constable Moyikwa highlights the need for robust community cooperation to prevent further violence and support law enforcement efforts.

Condolences and Call to Action

Commissioner Patekile extended his deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Constable Moyikwa. “He was on his way to serve the community and his country. His death is a profound loss not only to his loved ones but also to the South African Police Service and the nation as a whole.”

Both Patekile and Mosikili reiterated the importance of community involvement in addressing crime and ensuring the safety of officers and citizens alike.

Appeals for Public Assistance

The SAPS has appealed to the public for information that could assist in the investigation. Members of the community are encouraged to report any details, no matter how small, that could lead to the arrest of the suspects.

Citizens can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the My SAPS mobile application to submit tips anonymously.

Honoring a Fallen Hero

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on bringing the perpetrators to justice and honoring the memory of Constable Moyikwa. His dedication to duty, even while off duty, serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices police officers make to protect their communities.

A Call for Unity Against Crime

This tragedy has reignited calls for unity against crime and violence in South Africa. By working together, law enforcement, government, and communities can create safer environments and ensure that such senseless killings become a thing of the past.

For now, South Africa mourns the loss of yet another young officer whose life was cut short in the line of duty.

The post Manhunt launched after police officer shot and killed in Mfuleni appeared first on News365.co.za.