Two Arrested in Connection with Murder of Off-Duty Officer in Springs, Gauteng

In a brazen act of violence that has shocked the community in Geduld, Springs, Captain Wynand Du Toit, an off-duty officer from the Springs South African Police Service (SAPS), was fatally shot during a robbery at a local supermarket on February 16, 2025. Captain Du Toit was visiting the supermarket when he was alerted about the ongoing crime and heroically attempted to intervene.

The incident occurred when four male suspects ambushed the supermarket, which is owned by three brothers. According to eyewitness accounts and CCTV footage, the suspects ordered the brothers to the ground before opening fire when Captain Du Toit attempted to intervene. Tragically, both the Captain and one suspect were hit during the crossfire.

Captain Du Toit was quickly transported to Parkland hospital by members of the public, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Police action was swift following the incident. One suspect was apprehended later the same day after he sought medical treatment for gunshot wounds at Pholosong hospital in Tsakane. The arrest was facilitated by information received by the police, and he was subsequently placed under police guard. Further investigative efforts led to the arrest of the second suspect on February 17, 2025, in Evander, Mpumalanga.

The two men arrested, Nthuthuzelo Mana (32) and Benjamin Ntuli (37), faced the Springs Magistrate’s Court on February 19, 2025. Mana, who is still hospitalized, appeared in absentia. Authorities have postponed the matter to February 27, 2025, as investigations continue.

The arrests have garnered attention across Gauteng, with Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, Provincial Head of the Hawks, lauding the multi-disciplinary team involved in swiftly acting to apprehend the suspects. This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks faced by law enforcement officers in South Africa, even when off duty.

This incident has sparked renewed conversations about safety and security in smaller communities and the enormous sacrifices made by police officers. The community and the SAPS mourn the loss of Captain Du Toit, hailed as a brave hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.