Limpopo sergeant allegedly kills man, rapes 14-year-old and then shoots himself

A Limpopo police sergeant stationed at Mecklenburg SAPS allegedly shot and killed a 32-year-old man, then returned home where he allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl before fatally shooting himself, police said.

What happened

According to preliminary information from Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, police were alerted to a shooting at Ga-Mashamothane at approximately 3:30pm on Sunday. Members found a 32-year-old man lying on the ground with gunshot wounds, and Emergency Medical Services certified him dead at the scene.

Allegations against the sergeant

Ledwaba said it is alleged the victim and the police officer encountered each other while driving along a narrow road and that a dispute reportedly ensued. The officer allegedly shot the man with his service firearm and left the scene.

Ledwaba added that the suspect allegedly drove to his residence with a 14-year-old girl who had been accompanying him, and that the minor was allegedly raped at the officer’s residence in Ga-Masha, Sekhukhune District. It is further alleged that shortly afterwards, the suspect took his service firearm and fatally shot himself.

Investigations and official response

Police in Tubatse, Sekhukhune District, have opened cases of murder and rape, and an inquest. Ledwaba said the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) had been notified and would take over the further investigation. “Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing,” he said.

Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers condemned the incident and reminded the public that “Police officers are entrusted with firearms and are expected to uphold and enforce the law. Where a member is alleged to have acted contrary to the law, the circumstances must be thoroughly investigated and the appropriate processes must follow.” He added: “We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and assure the affected minor that she will receive the necessary support.”

Cases opened

• Police opened cases of murder and rape.
• An inquest has been opened.
• IPID has been notified to take over the investigation.