A manhunt is underway in Ivory Park after two SAPS officers were shot and killed during crime-prevention patrols on Friday evening.

The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has ordered the mobilisation of maximum resources to find the suspects and recover the stolen police firearms.

According to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a sergeant and a constable attached to the Ivory Park Police Station were conducting routine crime-prevention duties in Ivory Park Extension 9 when unknown suspects opened fire on them.

“Both officers died at the scene. The suspects fled with two SAPS pistols, an SAPS rifle, and two cellphones.”

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, who visited the scene on Friday evening, has appointed a specialised task team comprising experienced detectives and tactical units to track down the killers.

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Police have said the recovery of the stolen state firearms is a top priority.

General Masemola condemned the attack, warning that the continued killing of police officers undermines the authority and safety of the state.

“Between April 1 and September 30 this year the SAPS sadly lost six police officers in the line of duty. We are doing everything possible to ensure our members are operationally ready by providing resources, refresher courses and regular maintenance shooting exercises.

“To all our law enforcement officers out there, don’t die with the resources we have given you. Always be vigilant and act decisively when your life or the lives of the communities we serve is under threat,” he said.

Police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or the stolen firearms to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or Ivory Park Station Commander Brigadier Ngcobo on 076 411 2314. Information may be provided anonymously.