CRIME SCENE: Libode, Eastern Cape: The South African Police Service have launched a manhunt after two police officers were brutally killed in the early hours of Friday, 18 September 2026.

The deceased members, aged 51 and 30, are from the Mthatha National Intervention Unit  and Mthatha Public Order Policing Unit. 

It is alleged that armed suspects were attacking a spaza shop and demanding money from the shop operator at Ziphunzana Location, Libode, near Mthatha. 

According to SAPS the two members responded to a call for assistance and were later found with gunshot wounds. 

“Both their service pistols were missing. A cordless grinder used to cut the shop’s burglar door was found at the scene.

“A multi-disciplinary team was deployed to the scene and a 72-hour plan has been activated to trace and arrest the suspects, said SAPS. 

The Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, said the brutal murder of police is an attack on the State.

“We will not rest until those responsible are arrested and prosecuted. We send our deepest condolences to their families and colleagues, and we will support them through this difficult time,” said Ncata.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information may also be submitted via the MySAPS-App. All information will be treated confidentially.