Three Butterworth traffic officers have been arrested by the police for allegedly hijacking a truck before robbing the driver and his crew of an undisclosed amount of cash on the N2 between Dutywa and Mthatha on Friday.

One of the traffic officers was rushed to Mthatha General Hospital after he was shot in the upper body and wounded during an exchange of gunfire with the police.

A fourth suspect, who is believed to be a self employed member of the public, was also arrested on the scene, said provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana.

Kinana said three suspects have been detained at Bityi police station while the wounded is under police guard in hospital.

He said all suspects are expected in court soon on charges if hijacking, attempted murder, armed robbery and pointing of firearm.

“The arrested suspects remain in custody as part of the investigation,” said Kinana.

Mnquma local municipality has condemned the incident and vowed to launch an internal disciplinary action against the officers.