Two Mozambican nationals arrested for the murder of police officers in Ivory Park

TWO Mozambican nationals have been arrested and two stolen SAPS firearms recovered following the murder of two police officers in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, last Friday.

Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja, both stationed at Ivory Park SAPS, were shot and killed in the line of duty. Their service weapons a 9mm pistol and an R5 rifle were taken during the attack, said national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.

Police mobilised maximum resources to track down the suspects and recover the stolen firearms. An intelligence-driven operation led by the Hawks, with support from Crime Intelligence and the Sedibeng Tactical Response Team (TRT), traced leads to Tembisa and Mamelodi East.

In Mamelodi, officers recovered both the 9mm pistol and the R5 rifle, along with several rounds of ammunition. The firearms were positively identified as those taken from the slain officers.

While investigations into the double murder continue, the two suspects will face charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The search for additional suspects and a second missing 9mm state-issued pistol is ongoing.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the team for their swift action.

“Between 1 April and 30 September 2025, the SAPS sadly lost six police officers in the line of duty,” said Masemola.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure our members are operationally ready — from providing resources to refresher courses and regular shooting exercises.”

"To all our law enforcement officers out there, don’t die with the resources that we have given you. Always be vigilant and act decisively when your life or the lives of the communities we serve are under threat."”

Anyone with information on the Ivory Park murders is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or reach out to Brigadier Ngcobo at 076 411 2314.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE