KEY POINTS
- A Limpopo police constable was arrested for possessing a stolen firearm used in a sergeant’s murder.
- The firearm was found hidden under corrugated iron sheets at a suspect’s home.
- Both suspects appeared in court and are facing multiple charges.
A Limpopo police constable has been arrested in connection with the murder of a police sergeant who was shot and killed during a robbery earlier this month.
The officer was found in possession of the stolen service pistol that was used in the killing.
The arrest took place on Wednesday in Seshego Zone 5, Polokwane, following an investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Unit.
Authorities also arrested the second suspect, a relative of the murdered sergeant, in connection with the crime.
According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, the investigation led authorities to the first suspect, who was caught with the stolen firearm and ammunition.
Further questioning revealed the involvement of a police constable attached to the Westernburg Police Station.
Stolen firearm and ammunition recovered
During the arrest, police recovered a Z88 9mm pistol, 32 rounds of ammunition, two magazines, and two cartridges. The items were hidden under corrugated iron sheets at the back of a house.
Authorities confirmed that the serial number on the pistol matched that of the firearm stolen from the murdered sergeant at Staanplaas in the Lebowakgomo policing area.
On February 5, 2025, assailants attacked the 37-year-old sergeant assigned to the Polokwane Provincial Flying Squad Unit.
The suspects allegedly stole his service pistol, laptops, and cellphones before fleeing the scene in a white bakkie that was waiting outside the victim’s home.
According to IOL, responders rushed the sergeant to the hospital, but he died upon arrival.
Suspects appear in court
Authorities took both suspects into custody, and they made their first appearance in the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
They face charges including defeating the ends of justice, possession of a stolen firearm, and illegal possession of ammunition.
Police have confirmed the transfer of the case to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit for further inquiries.
However, officials are investigating whether the firearm was used in other criminal activities. More arrests could follow as the investigation continues.
