Key Points:
- SAPS officer from Hogsback allegedly shot her boyfriend after returning from a traditional ceremony.
- IPID took over the investigation in line with procedures involving police misconduct.
- Another case in Stellenbosch involves a Hawks officer accused of killing his wife.
Police Officer Allegedly Fires Service Weapon During Domestic Dispute
ALICE, South Africa (AP) — Authorities arrested a police officer in the Eastern Cape on Saturday, May 4, for allegedly fatally shooting her boyfriend during an argument in their home in Alice.
Brig. Nobuntu Gantana, the provincial police spokesperson, confirmed that the officer, who works at Hogsback Police Station, had returned with her boyfriend from a traditional ceremony. An argument broke out after they got home.
“During the altercation, the officer allegedly pulled out her official firearm and fired a single shot,” Gantana said. “The bullet struck her boyfriend in the upper body and killed him.”
Police collected the firearm and ammunition from the scene. They also gathered several other forensic items to support the investigation.
Officers registered a murder case and transferred it to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). This step complies with standard procedure for police-related criminal cases.
Notably, the incident sparked headlines after Eastern Cape officer shoots boyfriend stories spread across national media outlets.
IPID Investigation and Court Appearance Set
The officer remains in custody and will appear in the Alice Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, May 7.
“The South African Police Service commits to enforcing the law without fear or favor,” Gantana stated. “We want to assure the public that the investigation will follow due legal process.”
Similar Case: Hawks Officer Allegedly Kills Wife in Stellenbosch
Meanwhile, in another tragic case, police arrested a warrant officer assigned to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks). He allegedly shot and killed his wife after an argument in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
According to IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping, the argument started at the couple’s home in Khayamnandi. The 41-year-old wife fled the house during the confrontation.
“The police officer followed her and allegedly fired several shots,” Shuping said.
She ran into a neighbor’s house for safety. However, the officer reportedly chased her inside and continued shooting in front of the residents.
“Paramedics responded to the scene and declared the woman dead from her injuries,” Shuping added.
IPID received the report and immediately arrested the officer.
Just like in the Eastern Cape officer shoots boyfriend case, IPID is overseeing this investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.
