They were denied bail during their first court appearance on Thursday (18/12). Inspectors Rudolph Foromo (29), Smanga Dladla (31), Colani Senzo Dlamini (34) and Vusumuzi Justice Simelane (36) are facing charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice.

Osinakachukwu Macus Onu (37) was allegedly shot and killed during an incident on the N12 road in Klerksdorp at around 03:00 on Wednesday (17/12). The Nigerian national was reportedly legally residing in South Africa.

Chased and shot during traffic operations on N12

The deceased was reportedly chased and shot by four traffic police officers conducting operations. His vehicle was later discovered in the middle of the lane on the opposite side of the N12.

“Police were alerted to the incident and responded promptly,” said provincial police spokesperson Col. Adéle Myburgh. “Upon arrival … officers discovered that the traffic officials involved had already left.

“Information received and preliminary investigations conducted by detectives led police to a location in Klerksdorp, where the suspects’ official firearms were seized for forensic ballistic analysis.”

Nigerian national Osinakachukwu Marcus Onu. Photo: Ghana News

North West acting provincial commissioner, Maj. Gen. Dr. Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the arrest of the suspects, reaffirming the police’s commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi