Police arrested the suspect on Tuesday (2/2) at his residence in Intabazwe, Bufferzone. The investigation began in the early hours of Monday (1/1), when officers were called to a home in the same area at approximately 05:50.

Inside a bedroom, police discovered the body of Jay Simon Ngconwane, 67, who had sustained multiple stab wounds to the head and legs. He was found lying in a pool of blood.

Inside a bedroom, officers discovered the body of Jay Simon Ngconwane, 67. Photo: Freepik

“The suspect was arrested on the same day at his shack,” said Free State police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring.

Authorities launched a murder investigation and identified a relative as the primary suspect. By Monday afternoon, tactical leads directed officers to a shack in the same neighbourhood, where the suspect had allegedly barricaded himself inside.

When police forced entry, the suspect reportedly attacked officers with a knife. “Police responded accordingly, and the suspect was shot in the leg and sustained injuries,” said Mophiring.

Evidence Seized, Charges Filed

A search of the premises led to the recovery of several pieces of evidence, including a blood-stained spade believed to have been used during the assault on Ngconwane. Investigators also seized a knife, a plastic bag containing narcotics, and a single round of rifle ammunition. 

“All items, including the knife, were seized as exhibits,” Mophiring added. The suspect is expected to appear before the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday (4/2. 

He faces charges of murder, common assault, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of unlicensed ammunition, and possession of drugs. In line with standard operating procedure, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) has been notified of the police-involved shooting.

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