An off-duty Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officer tragically lost his life in a fatal shooting outside a KwaThema spaza shop. The incident occurred on Friday morning when two assailants attacked the officer, resulting in his untimely death. The officer’s private firearm was also stolen during the attack, adding to the severity of the situation.
The EMPD is currently investigating the details surrounding the shooting, with the hope of capturing the perpetrators responsible for this heinous crime. This unfortunate event comes shortly after another EMPD traffic warden was killed in Tembisa just over a week ago. In that incident, two suspects shot the officer before fleeing the scene in a white Avanza vehicle.
Following the shooting in KwaThema, law enforcement officers embarked on a manhunt to track down the suspects. Within 72 hours, they were able to locate and apprehend two individuals in connection with the crime. The suspects were charged with murder and robbery, bringing some closure to the devastating loss suffered by the EMPD and the community.
City of Ekurhuleni MMC for community safety, Alderman Sizakele Masuku, expressed her condemnation of these senseless killings of law enforcement officers. She emphasized the dedication and sacrifice that officers make to protect the community, only to become targets of criminal activity. The MMC urged for swift arrests and for the perpetrators to face the full consequences of the law.
While the EMPD continues to follow leads in the investigation, no arrests have been made at this time. The memorial service for the fallen traffic warden, Lawrence Ngudle, was held to honor his service and sacrifice. Masuku highlighted the risks that officers undertake when they put on their uniform, acknowledging Ngudle’s dedication and commitment to his duty.
The EMPD and the community mourn the loss of their colleague and vow to seek justice for his tragic death. As they continue to pursue leads and gather evidence, they remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of all residents in Ekurhuleni.
