Two Mozambican nationals have been arrested after a major police breakthrough linked them to the murder of two South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in Ivory Park, Johannesburg. The arrests follow the recovery of two firearms stolen from the slain officers during an intelligence-driven operation in Mamelodi East.
SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that an SAPS-issued 9mm pistol and an R5 rifle were recovered and positively identified as the weapons taken from Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja. The two officers were gunned down last Friday evening while conducting crime-prevention duties in Ivory Park.
**Swift Multi-Unit Operation Leads to Recovery**
After the officers were murdered and disarmed, SAPS immediately launched a high-level manhunt. Specialised units — including Crime Intelligence, the Sedibeng Tactical Response Team, and the Hawks — were deployed to trace the missing firearms and those responsible for the killings.
The search led investigators to Tembisa and later Mamelodi East, where officers recovered the R5 rifle and the 9mm pistol along with several rounds of ammunition. During the operation, two Mozambican nationals were arrested. They are now facing charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition while investigations into the double murder continue.
Mathe added that the search is far from over. Police are still hunting additional suspects as well as a second missing 9mm service pistol taken from the officers at the crime scene.
**National Commissioner Commends Breakthrough**
SAPS national commissioner General Fannie Masemola praised the swift actions of the investigative teams, noting that recovering the stolen weapons was a critical step in uncovering the identities of the police killers.
He also expressed concern over the rising number of police officers being targeted while on and off duty. According to SAPS records, six officers were killed in the line of duty between April 1 and September 30, 2025.
Masemola emphasized the state’s commitment to protecting police members through ongoing training, refresher courses, and operational readiness. He urged officers to remain vigilant in hostile situations, saying:
**“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.”**
### **Brutal Attack in Ivory Park**
The deadly attack on Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja occurred while the officers were patrolling Ivory Park. Armed assailants ambushed them, fatally shooting both men before fleeing with two SAPS pistols, an SAPS R5 rifle, and two cellphones.
The murders prompted General Masemola to order Gauteng provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni to mobilise maximum policing resources to ensure the killers are captured.
### **Appeal to the Public**
SAPS is urging anyone with information on the suspects or the missing firearm to come forward.
Members of the public can contact **08600 10111** or speak directly to the Ivory Park station commander, **Brigadier Ngcobo**, at **076 411 2314**.
Investigations continue as police intensify the manhunt for the remaining suspects believed to be involved in the brutal double murder.
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