Manhunt underway after police officer stabbed to death during Easter weekend

Free State police have launched a manhunt for alleged four suspects who stabbed a police officer in Bochabela village, Phuthaditjhaba in the early hours of Sunday, April 9.

Police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring revealed that the off-duty police officer was with his friend at around 2:00 am when a group of unknown men attacked the two victims.

According to Mophiring, the off-duty police officer was walking from a nearby tavern from Bochabela Village with a friend when the unfortunate incident occurred.

“A sharp object struck the officer’s head, and he fell to the ground, whilst the friend managed to escape. The group also fled the scene on foot, living the police officer helpless,” Mophiring said.

The group also fled the scene on foot, living the police officer helpless.

“The police and ambulance were dispatched to the scene about 9:00 am. Upon arrival, the victim was confirmed dead on the scene,” said Mophiring who added that a case of murder is currently being investigated.

“Those with information that may assist in the arrest and conviction of these suspects are encouraged to call the Phuthaditjhaba police station on 058 718 0986/7/8 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111, alternatively The My SAPS App is also available for tip-offs,” pledged Mophiring.

Three suspects were arrested for house robbery in Bloemfontein

In other incident, on Saturday, April 8, a team of security officers and the police arrested three suspects; two
males aged 24 and 32, and a female aged 34.

This comes after a complaint was received by the Bloemfontein Flying Squad patrol vehicle about a house robbery that took place in the early hours in Dan Pienaar Drive in Bloemfontein.

The police acted swiftly and rushed to the scene, they were joined by other security companies, Bloemsec, Fidelity, ADT, ProForce and ITR.

According to police spokesperson in Mangaung, Thabo Covane, the first suspect was already apprehended, and the joint forces comprising of the police and security agencies, launched manhunt for the other two who had fled the scene.

“They were traced and arrested at White Flats in Brandwag. The complainant and his partner identified all the suspects,” said Covane.

“A house robbery docket was opened at Parkweg Police Station. The three suspects were detained in police custody and will appear in Bloemfontein Magistrate Court soon,” added Covane.