A Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) officer was shot and killed in Olievenhoutbosch in Centurion, Pretoria during a hijacking in the early hours of yesterday.

TMPD spokesperson Superintendent Isaac Mahamba confirmed the incident and said the officer was off duty. He was driving with his girlfriend in his car when the hijacking happened.

The hijacking is said to have taken place near Samrand and Mahamba says the officer was shot multiple times.

“After arriving on the scene, first responders were able to locate him, only to find that he had several bullet wounds. He was unfortunately declared dead at the scene,” says Mahamba.

He could not yet provide more details about the slain officer as the investigation is still under way.

“At this early stage, the incident is still under investigation, and we will only reveal the identity of the officer once further information is gathered and we can confirm that his close family was informed,” says Mahamba.

It is believed his girlfriend was shot in the leg. She was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

In addition to making off with the officer’s car, the hijackers also stole his service weapon.

The TMPD sends its condolences to the officer’s family and assures them they are determined to find the culprits.

Residents with any information related to this case are urged to come forward.