Police have launched a manhunt for suspects in the killing of an off-duty 50-year-old sergeant in Mabopane, north of Pretoria, yesterday.

Pretoria Rekord reports the incident occurred around 13:00 when Sergeant Marcus Lekalakala of the Gauteng Highway Patrol Unit came under fire from unknown assailants while driving his red Polo.

The perpetrators were allegedly in a sedan.

Local police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo says the suspects fired multiple shots at the officer, causing him to lose control of his vehicle.

“The officer’s car then collided with a Toyota Venture and came to a halt. Emergency paramedics rushed to the scene but declared the officer dead on arrival,” adds Masondo.

Masondo says officers are actively pursuing leads and appealed to the public for assistance.

“We are calling on anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information about the suspects’ whereabouts to contact their nearest police station or reach out to Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be provided anonymously via the MySAPS App,” says Masondo.

The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.

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In another incident in Mabopane, a suspect was injured following a shoot-out with police in Unit B on Friday.

It is alleged officers were on routine patrol when they stopped two unknown men walking along the street.

One of them allegedly started shooting as the officers approached, prompting them to retaliate.

The suspect was struck in the hand and hip and taken to a local hospital.

Police seized the firearm, which was found to be unlicensed.

A case of attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition was opened for investigation.

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