Two government officials from the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier have been arrested in connection with the September 2023 murder of a forensic investigator who was probing fraudulent qualifications within the provincial government.
The South African Police Service Tshwane District Organised Crime Investigation unit arrested the suspects following extensive investigations into the killing of Mabidi Mashaba, a senior government official attached to the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.
Mashaba was a forensic investigator responsible for investigating allegations involving individuals who had allegedly secured government positions using fraudulent qualifications.
The murder occurred in September 2023 whilst Mashaba was travelling from Mpumalanga to Pretoria. During the attack, his vehicle was sprayed with more than 20 bullets. The suspects took his work laptop and sensitive documents at the time.
Mashaba later succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
The Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, welcomed the arrests and applauded the investigating team for their dedication in bringing those allegedly responsible to justice.
“The arrest of the two suspects demonstrates SAPS’ unwavering commitment to ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the investigation of serious and organised crimes, particularly cases involving the targeted killing of individuals serving the interests of justice and accountability within government institutions,” said Lieutenant General Dimpane.
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She reiterated that SAPS remains resolute in rooting out criminality, irrespective of the position or status of those implicated.
One suspect, Eckson Mkondo, has already appeared before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. His matter is remanded to 4 June for a formal bail application.
The second suspect is expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court today, Friday 28 May, on charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
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