A 29-year-old man has become the fourth person to be arrested in connection with the tragic murders of Free State Constables Sipho Mohapi and Gedione Motloung. The two officers were fatally shot while responding to a house robbery in Phuthaditjhaba on January 4, 2025, in what has been described as a violent ambush.
The suspect was apprehended in Mangaung village on Monday, thanks to the efforts of the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, more commonly known as the Hawks. Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed that the suspect was found in possession of a silver and black Taurus pistol, a magazine with two live rounds of ammunition, a brown balaclava, and a Samsung Galaxy cellphone. These items will likely play a crucial role in linking the suspect to the deadly robbery and shooting incident.
The arrest follows a series of earlier detentions related to the case. Marasane Kabelo Anmony, 27, was arrested on January 16, 2025, and appeared in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrates Court the following day on charges of murder and robbery. Pakiso Lethako, 24, was apprehended a day earlier, on January 15, and Lakaje Piet Thetha, 53, was arrested on January 17.
The latest suspect is set to appear before the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, where he will face charges of murder, house robbery, and possession of an unlicensed firearm. This brings the total number of individuals arrested in connection with the murders to four, all of whom are accused of being involved in the violent attack on the two police officers.
The arrests have been hailed as a significant step in ensuring justice for the fallen officers. The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation expressed his gratitude to the team of investigators who worked tirelessly to bring the suspects to justice. He also thanked the local communities for their cooperation in providing valuable information that led to the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.
The murder of Constables Mohapi and Motloung has shocked the community and highlighted the dangers law enforcement officers face on a daily basis. Their deaths have not only left a void in the Free State police force but have also sparked an outpouring of support from citizens, law enforcement, and officials alike, all of whom are eager to see the full weight of the law brought down on those responsible.
