The 49-year-old suspect was apprehended by members of the Free State Provincial Tracking and Tracing Team. He was wanted in connection with a murder and robbery committed in Bloemfontein nearly two decades ago.

Free State police spokesperson Sgt Mahlomola Kareli said the suspect identified as Patrick Machuto, had been on the run since 2015 after failing to honour his court appearances in connection with the 2007 case registered in Kopanong, Bloemfontein.

Free State police spokesperson Sgt Mahlomola Kareli. Photo supplied

Acting on operational intelligence about the whereabouts of Machuto on 4 July, the Free State team members travelled to Lehurutse in North West to locate him. Although officers did not find him at his known address, they discovered he had recently been arrested on an unrelated assault charge and was expected to appear in court later in the month.

“The Free State Provincial Tracking Team worked with the local investigating officer to monitor the court roll and notify officers when Machuto appeared in court.”

After the investigating officer confirmed the suspect’s court appearance in Lehurutse, the Free State team travelled from Bloemfontein to execute the outstanding warrant of arrest.

“The suspect was immediately booked out and transported back to Bloemfontein, where he will face charges relating to the 2007 Kopanong murder and robbery, as well as additional counts regarding his failure to appear in court,” said Kareli.

Free State police commissioner Lt.Gen. Thabang Lesia commended the inter-provincial collaboration and thorough intelligence work that was demonstrated by the officers. “The wheels of justice may turn slowly, but criminals cannot hide forever,” said Lesia.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

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