Mpumalanga Constable Charged with Double Murder and Attempted Murder

In a recent and disturbing turn of events, a police constable from Mpumalanga, South Africa, has been taken into custody under grave charges of double murder and attempted murder. Constable Checha Doctor Makau, a 38-year-old officer stationed at Ogies Detectives, stands accused of a violent act that has left the community reeling and seeking justice.

The tragic incident, which occurred on September 30, 2023, ended the lives of two young individuals, Dineo Kekane and Ricardo Phenganane, both 24, who died from gunshot wounds sustained during the incident. Additionally, three others—Mbali Magakwe, Ivans Lekala, and Goodwill Mdluli—were severely wounded but miraculously survived the harrowing ordeal.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid), through its spokesperson Phaladi Shuping, verified Makau’s arrest and disclosed distressing details to the public. According to Shuping, Constable Makau went beyond the call of duty—his actions resulting in a violent confrontation that escalated to gunfire on a street near his home. That fateful day, he allegedly opened fire on a group of individuals sitting in a car, resulting in a catastrophic outcome.

These accusations brought the case to the Ogies Magistrate's Court where Constable Makau made his initial court appearance. Mired in the gravity of the situation, he was remanded in custody, facing two counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder. The court has adjourned the case to March 4, when Makau is set to submit his formal bail application.

The broader community and the nation at large look on as this case progresses, bringing into question the conduct and psychological evaluations of law enforcement officers. This incident is not without precedent—as noted by Phaladi Shuping, a similar case emerged last month when a 44-year-old police officer from Akasia, Tshwane was apprehended by Ipid in relation to the murder of her 40-year-old husband, subsequent to a physical altercation.

These events pose pressing questions regarding the safety measures and regulations governing police officers' access to and use of firearms, both on and off duty. The occurrence of two police-related shootings in close succession highlights a potentially systemic issue within the South African Police Service (SAPS), stirring debates on the reformation of policies to prevent future tragedies.

As the story unfolds and the judicial process takes its course, the public awaits answers, accountability, and assurance that measures will be taken to protect citizens from those who are meant to serve and protect.