Crime
SAPS detective killed in Christiana tavern stabbing after beer dispute
A Saturday afternoon in the North West town of Christiana turned tragic after an off-duty police detective lost his life during a tavern altercation.
A moment that turned fatal
Sergeant Christoffer Lechuti, 47, who served in the local Detective Unit, was at a neighbourhood tavern with a family member when the situation reportedly escalated. According to police, the confrontation began after two men allegedly kicked over his beer, which led to a verbal exchange.
The incident turned violent when one of the men allegedly stabbed Lechuti in the chest with a sharp object. He was rushed to a nearby clinic but was declared dead shortly after arriving.
Swift arrests within hours
Police moved quickly following the stabbing. The 72-hour activation plan was immediately put into action to trace those involved.
A 46-year-old man handed himself over to Christiana police later that same evening. A second suspect, aged 32, was arrested in the early hours of Sunday morning. Both men are expected to appear before the Christiana Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 9 February, facing a charge of murder.
The investigation will be handled by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, which deals with serious priority offences.
A blow to local policing
North West acting provincial police commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo described the killing as a devastating loss for the SAPS. He said violent crimes against police officers have a direct impact on service delivery to communities.
Naidoo also commended investigators for their rapid response, which led to arrests within hours of the incident.
Public urged to report crime
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh said authorities remain committed to ensuring those responsible are brought before the courts. She urged members of the public to report criminal activity through Crime Stop or the MySAPS App, noting that community information often assists investigations.
As the case heads to court, colleagues, friends, and family are left mourning a detective who was off duty at the time of the incident.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Adobe Stock
