Cape Town – A police officer was murdered along a Cape Town highway, early on Tuesday morning, while escorting a truck containing perlemoen.

It is understood that the warrant officer, a member of the Hermanus police, was shot dead shortly after 01:00, and that a vehicle with blue lights was involved in the attack.

Western Cape Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha said cases of murder, attempted murder and hijacking were under investigation.

No arrests have been made.

News24 understands that the officer had been in a vehicle which was escorting the truck to Cape Town International Airport.

He was targeted along the N2, between Baden Powell Drive and Spine Road.

News24 understands the officer was off duty at the time.

His official firearm was found at the scene.