Durban – Two police officers were shot and injured in KwaDabeka, Durban, early on Monday morning.
According to a well-placed source, at around 2am local police pulled over a Nissan bakkie which was linked to a hijacking which had taken place in Pinetown.
The occupants, who were armed with high calibre rifles, opened fire on the officers and one policeman was shot in the stomach.
Officers form the Durban K9 Unit were dispatched shortly after but they drove into an ambush and another shootout ensued, in which another officer was shot in the arm.
“The suspects left their vehicle and fled the scene as police retaliated,” police spokesperson Brigadier Jay Naicker said.
He said the two injured police officers were taken to hospital for medical attention.
A manhunt for the suspects is underway.
KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Bheki Langa said they would not take attacks on police officers in the province lightly.
“Police officials are putting their lives on the line to protect the citizens of this country as well as their property,” he said, “We will do everything that is within our control to ensure that those responsible for this latest attack are put behind bars where they belong."
He wished the injured police officers a speedy recovery.
Police are appealing to anyone who might have information with regards to the identity or whereabouts of the suspects involved herewith to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their local police station.