An intelligence-driven operation has led to two arrests and the recovery of two SAPS firearms stolen from two police officers who were shot and killed in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, on Friday evening, November 28.

“The firearms have been positively identified as belonging to Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja of the Ivory Park Police Station,” said SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.

Following the officers’ murders, the SAPS mobilised maximum resources to track down the suspects and recover the stolen state-issued firearms.

“Crime Intelligence members and the Sedibeng Tactical Response Team (TRT), working with the Hawks, traced suspects to Thembisa and Mamelodi East.

Also read: Hunt on for suspects who killed two on-duty police officers

“In Mamelodi, officers recovered a SAPS-issued 9mm pistol and an R5 rifle, along with several rounds of ammunition. Both firearms were confirmed to be those taken from the officers before they were killed,” said Mathe.

While investigations into the double murder continue, the suspects arrested will, for now, be charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

The search for additional suspects and the remaining stolen 9mm state pistol is ongoing.