A 32-year-old police constable was shot dead and two others were injured in Delft in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The suspect, a 24-year-old, was also injured during the shootout with cops and is currently in hospital under police guard.
Sources say the police members were performing crime prevention duties in Delft South when they heard gunshots in Speckboom Street.
It’s believed the officers approached the suspect who then opened fire on the police vehicle when the members were shot.
The suspect fled, but was caught soon after.
Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk confirms: "Delft police performing crime prevention duties in the area came under fire in the early hours of (Sunday) morning resulting in the death of one and serious injury to two other police members.
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk. File image
"The suspect subsequently fled. A second patrol vehicle responding to the shooting, was also shot at by the same suspect and they returned fire and injured the 24-year-old suspect who is currently under police guard in hospital."
"A firearm was seized. Fellow members from the station are still receiving trauma counselling."
Van Wyks adds: "Police have intensified deployment in the area. Police management have condemned the incident and vowed to continue to rid the streets of Cape Town of dangerous criminals and illegal firearms. Community members are urged to report illegal activity occurring in their areas to crime stop number 08600 10111."
This attack comes days after the army was deployed to Delft which has also been plagued by gang violence.
The local community policing forum is meant to meet with Western Cape provincial commissioner, Khombinkosi Jula on Sunday.
A spokesperson said: “We are done complaining and want (the) station commander out. Delft saps management's incompetence is causing the deaths of not only (the) community, but members (of the police) too.”