A Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer is fighting for his life in hospital.
This after he shot in a shootout that took place last night at Turffontein.
JMPD spokesman, Xolani Fihla told Daily Sun that officers were conducting crime prevention duties at around 7:30 pm when this happened.
"Two JMPD officers from the Special Patrol Unit stopped a suspicious Toyota Fortuner along Rifle Range Road and Gertruida Street. As they were pulled over, the driver and passenger exited the vehicle as if they were being compliant but that wasn't the case," said Fihla.
"The passenger drew a pistol and shot at the officers, hitting one officer in the shoulder," he added.
Fihla further stated that officers then returned fire and the driver fled the scene on foot while the passenger got into the vehicle and drove off. Unfortunately for him, he didn't get very far as he collided with a fence nearby.
"It was then discovered that the passenger was shot in the thigh. Officers managed to arrest the passenger and he was taken to hospital under police guard. The driver is still on the run," said Fihla.
The injured officer is currently at Milpark Hospital and the other officer was unscathed.
Fihla also said that it was discovered that the vehicle and the firearm that was used by the suspects were reported stolen.
"A case of attempted murder and possession of a stolen vehicle has been opened at Booysens SAPS for further investigation," said Fihla.
