PRETORIA – The National Commissioner has applauded the speedy arrest of at least one suspect responsible for the killing of a policeman, 36-year-old Constable Mokgophe Rankoe last night.

Constable Rankoe and a colleague, also a 36-year-old Constable from Dobsonville Police Station were attending complaint of a house robbery in progress at around midnight last night in Braamfischer when they came under fire by the alleged robbers.

Constable Rankoe was struck in his head by a bullet and the colleague was overpowered before both members’ firearms and cellular phones were stolen from them.

Constable Rankoe was rushed to hospital where he died a short while later.

One 9mm firearm, suspected to be one of the suspect’s firearms was found at the scene.

An integrated team worked through the night and arrested one suspect within hours of the incident. The team is continuing its search for at least one more suspect.

The National Commissioner has welcomed the speedy arrest of the suspect but at the same time he has condemned the attack on our members and killing of one of the police officers.

“I have directed that all those responsible for this attack must be arrested and through the Criminal Justice System, they must face the full brunt of the law”, said General Sitole.

“The murder of the Constable comes as police management nationally prepares to commemorate 29 fallen colleagues in Pretoria this coming Sunday”, added General Sitole.

We appeal to anyone with information on Crime to please contact our toll-free Crime Stop number 086 00 10111. Callers may remain anonymous and all calls will be treated with strictest confidence.

Source: South African Police Service