“Those are the people who are supposed to serve and protect our communities,” he said, and expressed disappointment at the continued involvement of police officers in criminal activities. Such incidents further strain challenged service delivery and exacerbate the shortage of police personnel.

Johannes Phafane, 35, David Matothi, 31, Edward Mokake, 45, Lebohang Senxezi, 33, Vuyisile Kabuza, 45, Ikakeng Maropeng, 42, Teboho Monaune, 37, Lehlohonolo Morapedi, 38, and Tsheliso Mohoboko, 44, appeared in court yesterday following their arrest on Saturday (11/4). They face four counts of murder.

Each of the nine officers was granted bail of R3,000, and the case has been postponed to 26 May.

“The investigations into the matter is almost complete hence the investigating officer did not have objection to the release of the accused because we don’t have any fear that they might interfere with investigations,” said Shuping.

All the officers had been informed and requested to surrender, he added. “Disciplinary issues are an internal process that will be decided by the SAPS whether they continue with their duties or not.

“We have done our responsibility, and we are waiting on the NPA to decide on the appropriate forum where the matter is going to be tried.”

He lamented the fact that nine police officers were now inactive. “If you take them away from their responsibilities, we are hampering service delivery in terms of (the) protection of community members. Unfortunately, we have a mandate to fulfil (and if there’s) someone to be arrested … we have to do that.”

The incident occurred in Phahameng when officers responded to a call involving a family dispute. Upon arrival, family members allegedly locked themselves inside the house and barricaded all entry points.

“The police officers executed a tactical entry into the house during which they discharged their firearms,” said Shuping. Three civilians and one police officer died at the scene. Investigators recovered 43 empty cartridge cases from the house.

The matter remains under investigation, with the National Prosecuting Authority expected to determine how the case will proceed.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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