Suspect captured after two months on the run
Police in Mpumalanga have arrested Prince Gift Mdluli, the sixth suspect in the murder of Piet Pretorius, a 59-year-old police commander. Lieutenant Colonel Piet Pretorius, who led the Ermelo Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit, was shot execution-style on Jan. 16, 2025.
Provincial Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi confirmed that officers apprehended Mdluli in Komatipoort on Saturday.
Five suspects arrested hours after the killing
Shortly after Piet Pretorius’ murder, authorities launched a large-scale operation. Within 12 hours, officers arrested five suspects linked to the case:
- Mthobisi Nkosi, 40 (a former police officer)
- Aubrey Xaba, 35
- Skhumbuzo Skhakhane, 40
- Nyiko Mujovo, 30
- Valencia Skhosana
The Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organized Crime Investigation unit led the arrests in Nelspruit.
Planned assassination suspected
Investigators believe Piet Pretorius’ murder was an orchestrated attack. Gunmen ambushed him and fired multiple shots before fleeing. While authorities continue investigating the exact motive, they suspect ties to organized crime networks.
For nearly two months, Prince Mdluli evaded arrest, moving between provinces to avoid capture. His arrest followed an intensive manhunt. Officers found him in a disheveled state, wearing dirty, worn-out clothes, suggesting that he had been living in hiding under difficult conditions.
Authorities vow justice for Piet Pretorius
Nkosi praised the swift police response and emphasized that all suspects would be held accountable.
“The murder of Piet Pretorius is an attack on law enforcement,” Nkosi said. “We remain committed to ensuring that those responsible face justice.”
The suspects will soon appear in court, where they will face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and potential organized crime offenses.
Tributes pour in for slain officer
The Ermelo community and law enforcement agencies have expressed deep sorrow over the death of Lieutenant Colonel Piet Pretorius. Colleagues and residents have honored him as a fearless officer dedicated to fighting crime.
Authorities encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward, stressing that community support is crucial in solving violent crimes.
Outbound and internal links
For more details on the ongoing investigation, visit the official South African Police Service (SAPS) website.
Read related crime updates on News24.
