Police in Mpumalanga have launched an urgent manhunt for suspects following the fatal shooting of a police officer in Phakane, Pienaar, on the night of 06 June.

According to preliminary reports, the officer identified as Constable Donald Mathebula (34) was found inside his private vehicle while in full SAPS uniform. He was rushed to hospital but was sadly declared dead on arrival.

Initial investigations indicate that Constable Mathebula had stopped at a local tuckshop when he was ambushed by three armed suspects wearing balaclavas. The suspects reportedly opened fire on the officer, prompting him to attempt an escape by vehicle. However, he was struck by gunfire, causing his vehicle to veer out of control, collide with a tree and wall, and come to a stop.

The assailants fled the scene without taking anything. The vehicle was later found with bullet holes on the rear and right side.

Constable Mathebula was a member of the Pienaar SAPS Visible Policing Unit and had served the South African Police Service for ten years. The motive behind the killing remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.

In response, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has mobilised the 72-hour Activation Plan, ensuring that all critical resources are directed toward tracking and arresting the suspects.

“Anyone who attacks a police officer is directly attacking the state and will face the full might of the law,” said Major General Mkhwanazi. “This brutal murder comes just a week after another officer was killed. This violence against law enforcement cannot continue unchecked.”

Police are urging members of the public who may have any information to come forward. Tip-offs can be made anonymously via the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.