KEY POINTS
- A senior Ipid official was arrested for allegedly killing his wife.
- The incident occurred during a domestic dispute in 2022.
- The accused was granted bail as the investigation continues.
A senior officer from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) has been arrested for allegedly shooting and killing his wife during what police described as a “very strange domestic dispute.”
Ipid official arrested in Free State murder case
The arrest follows an investigation into a firearm discharge at a home in Hillside View, Bloemfontein, on November 20, 2022.
Police spokesperson Capt. Loraine Earle confirmed that the victim, Dineo Matlakeng, 50, was fatally wounded under questionable circumstances. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the nature of the dispute or what led to the shooting.
Suspect hands himself over after arrest warrant issued
After a thorough review of evidence, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) issued a warrant for the suspect, identified as 55-year-old Kleinbooi Mote Matlakeng. He later turned himself in and was formally charged.
According to Iol, Matlakeng appeared before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court, where the case was remanded to March 24 for further proceedings. He was granted R1,000 bail, a decision that has sparked mixed reactions from the public and legal experts.
While some argue that bail is a constitutional right, critics believe that given the seriousness of the crime, stricter bail conditions should have been imposed.
Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane, the Free State police commissioner, praised law enforcement officials for their commitment to justice.
“This court appearance shows our dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served without fear or favor,” she said.
The investigation remains active, with Free State police working alongside Ipid headquarters to determine any internal procedures that may follow.
Authorities have urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold and assured that no preferential treatment will be given due to the suspect’s position in law enforcement.
