Honeydew police constables jailed for murder and torture

What happened

The incident occurred at the Honeydew police cells in October 2019. The two accused officers, Constable Rudzani Ernest Marumo and Thabang Gerald Makgotla, were arrested in 2019. They were convicted in the South Gauteng High Court on charges of murder and assault.

Sentences and legal findings

Each officer received 14 years’ direct imprisonment for the murder of Thando Gazu, described in court as a 40-year-old African male. They were also each given 3 years for assault. The court ordered that the 14-year and 3-year sentences run concurrently. The court further declared both officers unfit to possess a firearm on 18 May 2026.

Victims named in court

It is alleged that Gazu died after being assaulted and tortured inside the holding cells. His death was certified while still in custody. A friend, Msizi Memela, was also assaulted by the two constables.

IPID reaction and wider context

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate welcomed the convictions. Ipid spokesperson Lizzy Suping said:

“The matter was subsequently transferred to the South Gauteng High Court for trial, where both were convicted on charges of murder and assault GBH. The 14-year and 3 – year sentences for each accused officer will run concurrently.”

Suping also said:

“Ipid investigations are premised on thoroughness and quality.”

As of the end of March 2026, Ipid had secured 26 convictions for murder by police officers, and more than 179 murder cases involving police officers were on court rolls, according to the directorate.

Related developments

The same reporting noted a separate matter in which three South African Police Service officials from Pretoria West were arrested on charges of corruption and extortion and were each granted R5,000 bail by the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court on 19 May 2026. The State did not oppose bail, the National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson said, because the accused were not considered flight risks.

What Johannesburg readers should take away

• Convictions and sentences: Two Honeydew constables convicted of murder and assault received concurrent prison terms of 14 and 3 years respectively.
• Official oversight: Ipid framed the outcome as part of its efforts to hold police accountable; its recent caseload figures show ongoing prosecutions involving police-related killings.
• Firearm bans: The court declared both convicted officers unfit to possess firearms.

This report is based on court findings and statements from Ipid as published in The Citizen on 20 May 2026.