A suspect has been arrested in connection with the killing of two EMPD officers earlier this month in Thembisa.

On Friday, June 20, members of the EMPD’s Northern Region Task Team, working in collaboration with SAPS District Crime Intelligence, apprehended a 37-year-old foreign national male believed to be linked to the fatal shooting of Constable Thabang Piet Maluleke and Constable Kagiso Francis Motshabi.

The two officers were ambushed, shot, and robbed of their service pistols on June 12, while reporting for night duty in the Umthambeka Section of Thembisa.

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The breakthrough came as a result of a meticulous investigation that led to the arrest of one suspect. Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to trace additional suspects involved in the heinous crime.

Community outreach efforts are also underway to gather more information and to reassure residents of their safety.

“This tragic loss serves as a reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face daily,” said an EMPD spokesperson, Thabiso Makgato.

“We remain committed to protecting our communities and bringing those responsible for this attack to justice.”