Hijackers kill cop outside KZN school

KwaZulu-Natal police have launched a manhunt after an off-duty officer was gunned down outside a school on Wednesday.

All resources have been mobilised to apprehend the group of criminals who shot and killed the off-duty police officer.

Warrant officer Michael Jameson, pictured, was collecting his daughter from school in Umbilo when he noticed a hijacking in progress. The 52 year old immediately placed himself on duty and responded to the incident.

Police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe said: “Upon noticing the member was armed, the suspects opened fire. The member returned fire but sadly succumbed to his injuries on scene.

“Police in KwaZulu-Natal have mobilised all resources to track and trace down the suspects.”

Mathe said two vehicles, one which was hijacked outside the school and the other which was hijacked in Hammersdale, have been found abandoned “after the pair crashed both vehicles as they were evading arrest”.

The national commissioner of the SA Police Service, General Fannie Masemola, said police were working around the clock to apprehend those responsible for the murder.

“The late warrant officer died a hero, as he died serving and protecting the people of this country,” Masemola said.

“He, indeed, served with pride as he placed himself on duty and put the safety of his community before his own.

“Let me take this opportunity to pay gratitude to the deceased member.

“The bell has rung, thank you for your service and dedication to serve and protect.

“We will not rest until the late member’s killers are traced and apprehended to answer to this callous act.”

Masemola has sent his condolences to Jameson’s family, friends and colleagues.

The bell has rung, thank you for your service and dedication to serve and protect.

General Fannie Masemola National commissioner of the SA Police Service