Police Launch Nationwide Manhunt for Escaped Murder Suspect After Deadly Attack on Officers
Authorities in Gauteng have launched an intense manhunt for 34-year-old Zimbabwean national, Jabulani Moyo, following a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two South African Police Service (SAPS) officers earlier today. The brazen attack occurred while the officers were transporting Moyo from the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court.
Deadly Ambush Shocks Community
According to preliminary reports, the incident took place during the late morning hours as the officers were escorting Moyo in a marked police vehicle. Eyewitnesses described hearing multiple gunshots, followed by chaos as bystanders scrambled for safety. Both officers were fatally wounded in the attack, and their service firearms were stolen by the perpetrators.
The suspect managed to escape amid the confusion, commandeering the very police vehicle used for his transport. The vehicle was later recovered by law enforcement in an undisclosed location, but Moyo remains at large.
Suspect Considered Armed and Extremely Dangerous
Police officials have warned the public that Moyo is believed to be armed and extremely dangerous. His criminal history has not been fully disclosed, but sources close to the investigation confirm that he was facing serious charges at the time of the attack.
Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward immediately. “We will leave no stone unturned in tracking down this suspect,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nomsa Maseko. “The murder of our officers will not go unpunished, and we are calling on the public to assist us in bringing this dangerous man to justice.”
Massive Manhunt Underway
The manhunt has expanded beyond Gauteng, with police coordinating efforts across provincial borders. Border control units have been alerted, and roadblocks have been set up on major highways in an attempt to prevent Moyo from fleeing the country. The Hawks, crime intelligence units, and tactical response teams are all involved in the search.
Helicopters have been deployed to conduct aerial sweeps, while K9 units are combing possible escape routes. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity of the court and along known getaway paths.
Public Safety Advisory
Police have stressed that members of the public should not attempt to approach or confront Moyo if spotted. Instead, they should contact their nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the MySAPS mobile app.
Nation in Mourning
The SAPS community is reeling from the loss of the two officers, whose identities have not yet been released pending notification of their families. Flags at police stations in the province will be flown at half-mast in their honor.
“This is not just an attack on the SAPS; it’s an attack on the safety and security of every South African,” Brigadier Maseko added. “We will ensure justice is served.”
As the search for Moyo intensifies, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, stay informed, and support the police in their mission to capture the fugitive without delay.