Constable MURDERED while off-duty

Two suspects aged 26 and 31 have been arrested for the murder of student constable Mzimasi Hloba, 28, who was stationed at Kokstad police station.

ALSO READ: South Africa: Today’s latest news and headlines, Friday, 17 February 2023

CONSTABLE KILLED WHILE OFF DUTY

Constable Hloba was killed off duty on Monday while travelling along R56 Main Road, Meyi Location near Ibisi.

According to a statement released by Captain Simphiwe Mhlongo of the HAWKS, after losing control of his vehicle. Hloba got out of his vehicle to assess the damages while his female friend remained in the vehicle.

“It is alleged that on Monday 13 February 2023, at about 3:00, Student Constable Hloba was off duty travelling along R56 Main Road, Meyi Location near Ibisi when his vehicle lost control.”

While he was busy checking the vehicle, they were approached by five suspects who robbed them of their belongings. The suspects fired a shot at him and fled the scene on foot, Mhlongo said.

ALSO READ: Police trainee shot and killed at academy during training

OFFICER DIED ON THE SCENE

Mhlongo added that Hloba was declared dead on the scene and that his female friend was taken to the hospital for medical attention.

A case of murder and armed robbery was reported at Ibisi police station and the case docket was given to the Hawks members for further investigation. “A joint operation was conducted and two suspects were arrested on Tuesday,” said Mhlongo.

He added that the suspects are expected to appear in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court today.

ALSO READ: Woman,49, arrested for murdering a police brother in law

SECOND CRIME IN KOKSTAD THIS MONTH

As reported by IOL, six suspects were arrested and charged with attempted murder, attempted robbery, impersonating a police officer, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

This is after they attempted to rob a Kokstad farmer and his wife on Tuesday.