Suspect to Appear in Court for Firearm Possession

A 34-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Belfast Magistrate’s Court on, 4 October 2024, for illegal possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.

This follows an extensive investigation conducted by a multidisciplinary team, including the Middelburg-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, KwaMhlanga Crime Intelligence, Middelburg K9, Kwaggafontein Detectives, and Hazyview Public Order Police (POP). The investigation was connected to the murder of Constable Mdluli, who was stationed at Kwaggafontein Police Station.

The incident occurred on 26 May 2020 when Constable Mdluli and his colleagues were patrolling and encountered a suspicious vehicle. After an attempt to stop the vehicle, a confrontation ensued, resulting in three suspects opening fire, and fatally wounding Constable Mdluli. The suspects fled the scene in a hijacked white VW Polo, with the vehicle’s victim still inside. The hijacked victim reported that the police officer was shot by one of the suspects.

Information regarding the suspect’s location was gathered, leading to the issuance of a warrant of arrest. The suspect was apprehended at his parent’s residence in Dullstroom, where a search revealed a pistol with obliterated serial numbers and six live rounds hidden in a toilet. The firearm was sent for ballistic analysis, and the suspect initially appeared in court on 27 May 2020. However, the case was postponed pending the analysis report.

After the ballistic report was finalized, a J50 warrant of arrest was issued. The suspect was arrested again on 2 October 2024 by KwaMhlanga Crime Intelligence and Hazyview POP and will now face court proceedings.

Major General Gerber, Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commended the team for their swift action, affirming that criminals targeting law enforcement will face justice. The investigation remains ongoing.