BULTFONTEIN – The case against nine Bultfontein police officers charged with murder has been transferred to the High Court of South Africa: Free State Division, in Welkom, for a pre-trial conference on 20 July.

The nine members of the South African Police Service’s Public Order Policing Unit face four counts of murder following a fatal shooting in Phahameng Township, Bultfontein, on Sunday, 22 September 2024.

The officers are 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).

They were each released on R3 000 bail on Monday, 13 April, after appearing in the Bultfontein Magistrate’s Court.

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.

The nine officers were arrested on Saturday, 11 April 2026, following an IPID investigation. The case was postponed to 26 May 2026 to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to determine the appropriate trial forum.

All nine officers remain suspended from duty pending the outcome of the criminal case.