💔 Murder in Uniform: Young Constable Executed in Armed Robbery, Hawks Lead Hunt for Killers
A national outcry is growing after 29-year-old Constable Khulani Chabangu was brutally murdered during an armed robbery at a barbershop in Lillydale, Culcatta (Mpumalanga) late on Friday night.
The incident, which occurred around 23h00, has prompted the elite Hawks unit to launch an urgent manhunt for the suspects, described as dangerous and armed.
🕵️ What Happened?
According to preliminary police reports:
- Two gunmen stormed the barbershop while Chabangu, two clients, and the barber were inside.
- The suspects allegedly ordered everyone to lie down, robbing the barber of cash and the others of their phones.
- Chabangu, who was off-duty, was targeted more aggressively — forced to undress, and hand over his clothing, car keys, and cellphone.
- He was then shot multiple times in the upper body before the assailants fled in his vehicle, which was later abandoned nearby.
Chabangu succumbed to his injuries shortly after the attack.
🛑 Hawks Take Over — Public Urged to Help
The case has been transferred to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in Nelspruit. Law enforcement officials are treating the case with urgency, describing it as a cold-blooded execution of a public servant.
“This is not just a murder — it’s an attack on the state,” said a Hawks spokesperson.
Anyone with information is urged to contact:
- Investigating Officer Constable Benediction Mabilane at 📞 076 815 8324
- Or Crime Stop anonymously at 📞 08600 10111
🚨 Rising Attacks on Police Spark Alarm
Constable Chabangu’s killing is part of a worrying rise in violence against police officers in South Africa. His death adds to a growing list of SAPS members slain while off-duty — many while trying to protect others or simply going about their personal lives.
Police unions and civil society groups are calling for:
- Stronger protection measures for officers
- Harsh penalties for cop killers
- Increased patrols and intelligence-led crime prevention in hotspot areas
⚖️ Justice Must Be Swift
Constable Khulani Chabangu was a dedicated officer and community protector. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers police face — and the impunity with which violent criminals often act.
Bottom Line: The manhunt is on, but justice for Constable Chabangu and his family depends on swift action, community cooperation, and a justice system that won’t let another officer’s murder go unanswered.
