BULTFONTEIN – Nine members of the South African Police Service’s Public Order Policing Unit were released on bail of R3 000 each on Monday, 13 April, after appearing in the Bultfontein Magistrate’s Court on four counts of murder.
The officers—Sergeants Edward Mokake (45), Shadrack Kabuza (45), and Tseliso Mohoboko (44), along with Constables Johannes Mohau (30), David Mofothi (31), Lebohang Senxesi (34), Ikaneng Maropeng (42), Teboho Monaune (37), and Lehlohonolo Morapedi (38)—face charges stemming from a fatal shooting on Sunday, 22 September 2024, in Phahameng Township, Bultfontein.
According to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, the officers had responded to a report of a domestic dispute involving members of the Maleka family. When police attempted to apprehend those involved, the family members allegedly locked themselves inside a house and barricaded all entrances.
Officers then carried out a tactical entry, during which they discharged their firearms. Three civilians—Mmota Maleka (36), Lobisa Maleka (28), and Andries Maleka (30)—were killed by gunshot wounds, along with a fellow police officer, Constable Mojalefa Borole (30).
Forensic investigators recovered 43 empty cartridge cases from the scene, indicating the extensive nature of the gunfire during the incident.
The nine officers were arrested on Saturday, 11 April, following a prolonged IPID investigation that examined the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. They appeared in court on Monday and were granted bail despite the serious nature of the charges.
The case was postponed to 26 May to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to determine the appropriate trial forum, whether the High Court or Regional Court will hear the matter.
All nine officers remain suspended from duty pending the outcome of the criminal case.
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