Western Cape police on Wednesday released the name of the off-duty constable who was gunned down in Kuyasa‚ Harare on Tuesday night.

Spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Andrè Traut said 37-year-old Nkosiphedule Makeleni‚ who was stationed at the Simons Town Sea Border Unit‚ was shot and killed while he was sitting in his private vehicle on the grounds of Ludwe Ngamlana Primary at about 8pm.

Makeleni was in “SAPS uniform” and has signed off “duty an hour before the incident”‚ Traut said.

“We have reason to believe that the motive could have been robbery as the member’s official service pistol was stolen.

“Any person who can assist police with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect or suspects is kindly requested to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be treated confidentially.”

Traut said Cape police management offer “sincerest condolences and support to the family and colleagues of the fallen member”.

More than 60 police officers have been killed nationwide this year.