Four warders face murder charges in the death of Mpho Mkhumbeni
Key Points:
- The SAPS arrested four warders for the alleged murder of an inmate at Mangaung Correctional Facility.
- A post-mortem revealed unnatural causes of death, prompting a shift to a murder investigation.
- The SAPS is dedicated to ensuring justice and is thoroughly investigating the case.
Death of Mpho Mkhumbeni
BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Bloemspruit arrested four prison warders in connection with the alleged murder of an inmate at Mangaung Correctional Facility.
Police were alerted to the death of 37-year-old Mpho Mkhumbeni on March 12, 2025. Authorities initially believed Mkhumbeni’s death resulted from natural causes. Consequently, they opened an inquest docket for further investigation.
However, the post-mortem examination later revealed that Mkhumbeni died from unnatural causes. This crucial finding prompted the SAPS to change the investigation’s focus from an inquest to a murder inquiry. The arrest of the South African warders followed this significant development.
Arrest of Four Warders
After reviewing the post-mortem results, investigators conducted additional inquiries. They gathered enough evidence to arrest four warders, aged between 34 and 50, on April 22, 2025. The police believe the warders were involved in the inmate’s death.
The four warders will appear in Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on April 23, 2025, to face charges. The SAPS has committed to thoroughly investigating the case and ensuring justice for Mkhumbeni.
Growing Concerns Over Inmate Treatment
This case has sparked significant concerns about inmate safety and treatment within South African correctional facilities. The SAPS pledged to investigate any suspected misconduct by correctional officers. They also promised to take action to protect the integrity of the justice system.
As the investigation moves forward, both the public and authorities eagerly await answers. They want to understand how Mkhumbeni’s death unfolded at a facility meant to rehabilitate, not harm, its inmates.
