The latest suspect (53) will appear in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Monday (20/1) after he was arrested on Friday in connection with the double murder of the police officers.

Their co-accused, Marasane Anmony (27), was arrested on Thursday in a village in Phuthaditjhaba and appeared in court on Friday on charges of murder and robbery.

“The case against Marasane Anmony was postponed to Friday (24/1) together with his Lesotho co-accused Pakiso Lethako (32), who was arrested on Wednesday,” said Gauteng Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale.

“The directorate does not rule out the possibility of more suspects being arrested; anyone with information is urged to call Detective Capt. Michael Masekoa on 082 455 6063.”

The official funeral service of Const. Sipho Mohapi (45) was held in the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Centre on Friday (17/1). 

“The soft-spoken constable was known for his love of life and a strong sense of cleanliness. He was a talented soccer player and was also honoured by his fellow players in Phuthaditjhaba,” said Free State police spokesperson Peter Kareli.

The official funeral service of Const. Gideon Motloung. Photo: SAPS

The official funeral service of Const. Gideon Motloung (39) was held in the Roman Catholic church in Phuthaditjhaba on Thursday. “He was remembered for his dedication to youth development and community service. He was also hailed as a respected member of the community,” said Kareli.

The two constables were shot and killed on Saturday, 4 January while attending to a complaint of a house robbery in Namahadi, Phuthaditjhaba. Both of them were laid to rest in the Bluegumbosch cemetery.

“The team assigned to the case is working tirelessly to trace and arrest those who took the life of one of us, with these arrests, they promised to bring all those involved to book,” said Provincial Commissioner Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane.

Hundreds of police officials paid their final respects to their colleagues. Photo: SAPS

“The tragic loss of these constables underscores the dangers faced by police officers in the line of duty,” said Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. “There is a dire need for enhanced training and safety protocols for officers responding to incidents such as house robberies and violent incidents.”

In another incident in North West this week, Sgt Fundiswa Motlhaoleng (45) was allegedly gunned down on Tuesday in Randlespark, Klerksdorp.

According to information, the member who is stationed at Jouberton visible policing, was shot by unknown suspects while in her private vehicle and on her way to work, fully in uniform. 

#sapsNW Sergeant Fundiswa Motlhaoleng (45) was shot and killed on 14/01 at Randlespark, Klerksdorp while in her private vehicle and on her way to work and in uniform. A black Volkswagen Polo vehicle with four occupants, was allegedly spotted driving off from the scene at a high… pic.twitter.com/NwhO77YzsO

— SA Police Service ???? (@SAPoliceService) January 15, 2025

The incident took place on Taljaart Kruger Street, where three empty cartridges and ammunition were found. Motlhaoleng’s body was found with gunshot wounds. A black Volkswagen Polo with four occupants was allegedly spotted speeding off.

North West acting Provincial Commissioner Maj. Gen. Patrick Asaneng conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, relatives and colleagues.

The motive of the incident has yet to be determined, and no arrests have been made. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is investigating the matter, said spokesperson Brig. Sabata Mokgwabone.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame