Breakthrough in Gauteng Murder Case as Hawks Arrest Two Suspects

In a major development in Gauteng, South Africa, the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) team has made significant progress by arresting and charging two suspects linked to a series of violent crimes, including the murder of a police officer and their own accomplice. The arrests of Joseph Mjozi Makhubele and Bongani Wilson Mabena have brought a mixture of relief and renewed focus on crime prevention in the region.

On the evening of the incident, which took place in October 2022, three armed men ambushed an off-duty police officer and his girlfriend as they arrived at their home in Mabopane, a township north of Pretoria. According to police reports, the suspects forced their way into the home, demanding valuables and subsequently locking the victims, along with other family members, in a bathroom. A shootout ensued when the officer, identified as Sergeant TP Losaba of the Rapid Rail Police Unit, managed to retrieve his service pistol. The confrontation resulted in the tragic death of Sergeant Losaba and one of the suspects, Chris Mazeti, who was later identified as a Zimbabwean national.

The ongoing investigation led the Hawks to Makhubele and Mabena, who were charged on 18 December 2024. Their charges include two counts of murder, relating to the deaths of Sergeant Losaba and their accomplice, Mazeti. Additionally, the duo faces charges of armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

The legal proceedings against Makhubele and Mabena began at the Ga-Rankuwa Magistrates Court, with the case now set to be heard in the High Court on 16 January 2025. This case has drawn particular attention due to the involvement of a police officer and the lethal outcome, highlighting the dangers law enforcement officials face and the lengths to which criminal elements will go to evade capture.

Major General Kadwa of the DPCI expressed a steadfast commitment to justice and the rule of law, stating: "The DPCI remains steadfast in its commitment to bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice and ensuring the safety and security of our communities."

The community of Mabopane, reeling from the violence, has been somewhat reassured by the swift action of the Hawks. Nonetheless, this case underscores the ongoing challenges faced in combating organized crime within South Africa and the importance of supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to maintain public safety.

As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on the High Court in January, where the accused will face the consequences of their actions. The case not only represents a significant operational success for the Hawks but also serves as a somber reminder of the risks police officers undertake daily in their duty to protect and serve.