A massive manhunt was launched after a local law enforcement officer was shot in the early hours of this morning.
Another was injured.
According to provincial police spokesperson Brig Leonard Hlathi a group of about six suspects went to a filling station along the road to Lynnville where they stormed in and robbed employees of their belongings.
They allegedly placed explosives on the counter and threatened to detonate them should the employees try to alert police.
The suspects’ plan was however interrupted by municipal law enforcement officers patrolling in the vicinity, who went to the filling station unbeknown there was a robbery in progress.
This resulted in a crossfire between these members and the suspects which led to a warrant officer being fatally wounded and his colleague shot in his right hand.
Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects is urged to call Colonel One Thobejane on 082 372 2195, or call the Crime Stop number on 08600 1011, alternatively, they can give a tip-off on the MySAPSApp that can be downloaded to any smartphone.
All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality and callers may opt to remain anonymous.