According to the South African Police Service (SAPS),a manhunt has been opened after an off-duty officer was killed and two working police were attacked in Gauteng.

The Office of the National Commissioner called for more cooperation between communities and the authorities in the wake of the attacks, in a statement on Wednesday, 17 November.

Three armed men robbed an off-duty officer attached to the Orlando Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations Unit (FCS) on Tuesday at approximately 22:00.

The robbers allegedly shot the officer multiple times and made off with his service pistol. He died at the scene in Freedom Park, Soweto, said police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe.

“A case of murder and armed robbery have been registered and no arrests have been made as yet,” said Mathe.

In the second incident, which also took place on Tuesday, two members of the Pretoria Public Order (POP) Unit were shot at while patrolling Extension 6, Akasia in a police Nyala.

“The area was engulfed by unrests during the day due to evictions that were taking place,” said the police spokesperson.

“Both members were taken to a local hospital where they are receiving further medical treatment.”

The two front tyres of the Nyala were damaged in the shooting and a case of attempted murder and malicious property damage has been opened. No arrests have been made thus far.

The Commissioner’s office said the Gauteng Police have enacted a 72-hour activation plan to catch the suspects responsible for the murder and attempted murder of officers.

“Communities who may have information on both incidents are encouraged to call the Crime Stop Hotline Number on 086-00-10111 or download the MySaps App on any android or smartphone,” said Mathe.