The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has launched a manhunt after an on-duty officer was disarmed in Lenasia on Thursday, 3 September 2026.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said the officer was carrying out official duties in the area when he was confronted by several men.
The suspects allegedly took the officer’s service firearm before fleeing in a vehicle towards the Golden Highway.
Fihla said no serious physical injuries had been reported and that medical and wellness support had been made available to the officer.
Dedicated JMPD units, working with other law enforcement agencies, are investigating the incident and trying to recover the stolen firearm.
“The JMPD strongly condemns any attack on law enforcement personnel,” Fihla said.
Police have appealed to anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Information can be reported to the City of Johannesburg emergency number on 011 375 5911 or anonymously through SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
