EASTERN CAPE — Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for the swift arrest of two suspects and the fatal wounding of three others linked to the Libode police killings in the Eastern Cape. The decisive action follows a targeted and rapid response to the tragic deaths of two law enforcement officers.
The breakthrough was achieved through the immediate activation of a 72-hour operational plan, supported by intensive intelligence gathering, tracking, and coordinated multidisciplinary operations. These efforts were specifically deployed to trace the individuals responsible for the fatal attack on the officers.
The incident occurred when the officers, identified as Warrant Officer Thando Magoxo and Constable Ntlahla Tyhali, responded to a call for assistance at a local spaza shop. Armed suspects had attacked the establishment, demanded money from the operator, and subsequently stole the service pistols of both officers during the assault.
In an official statement, SAPS emphasized that police officers are direct representatives of the State. Attacks against them strike at the rule of law and the authority vested in the police to protect communities and maintain public order. The service stressed that such acts of violence will no longer be tolerated.
Lieutenant General Dimpane specifically praised Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata and the multidisciplinary teams for their unwavering commitment to ensuring the perpetrators are brought before the courts to face the full might of the law.
“The speed with which the operation was activated and the subsequent progress in tracing the suspects demonstrate the resolve of the SAPS to pursue those who attack our members, steal police firearms and undermine the authority of the State,” the police statement read.
Lieutenant General Dimpane reinforced this stance, noting, “We will not allow criminals to believe that they can attack police officers, steal their firearms and operate with impunity. Our response must be swift, intelligence-driven and uncompromising, within the law. The arrest of two suspects and the fatal wounding of three others demonstrates that our members are pursuing every available lead.”
The Acting National Commissioner also reiterated the profound sense of loss felt by the organization over the deaths of Warrant Officer Magoxo and Constable Tyhali. SAPS affirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting their families, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time, while ensuring that the vital service these members provided to the people of South Africa continues uninterrupted.
