In a recent operation, multiple arrests have been made by the Tactical Response Unit of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) in connection with the tragic murder of Officer Judith Makwela. The incident occurred at her home in Riverside, Alexandra, on Friday, March 7.

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Following a tip-off on Saturday, March 15, officers acted quickly, leading them to a specific address in Riverside linked to the suspect’s whereabouts. Upon tactical entry, authorities located an individual who matched the description provided. Further questioning revealed vital information that enabled the team to apprehend additional suspects.

A search of the premises yielded a trove of evidence, including multiple rounds of ammunition, two firearms, pangas, an air gun, and other related items. In total, five individuals were detained, comprising one female and four males, all facing serious charges including murder and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.

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Chief Patrick Jaca, of the JMPD, expressed his firm commitment to justice, stating: “The swift and decisive action of our Tactical Response Unit in apprehending these suspects underscores our unwavering dedication to obtaining justice for Makwela and her family. We will not tolerate assaults on our officers and will pursue those responsible for such heinous acts relentlessly. This operation sends a strong message that we are committed to ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.”

The investigation remains ongoing as the JMPD seeks to further bolster their case against the suspects, reaffirming their commitment to the safety and security of law enforcement officers and the community at large.

UPDATE:

In a troubling development, it has emerged that one suspect, known in the Riverpark community as a dangerous individual, confessed to police that he had killed Judith Makwela out of a desire for revenge. He alleged that the son of the late officer was responsible for the deaths of his brother and father.

“He has been terrorising the community for a very long time,” remarked one officer involved in the arrest. A reliable source close to the case confirmed that this individual, along with three men and one woman, was arrested on the same night as the operation.

Details surrounding Makwela’s death reveal she was shot while seated in her vehicle outside her home in Riverpark, Alexandra. Despite being transported to Edenvale Hospital, she succumbed to her injuries. Lesego Selepe, Makwela’s daughter, recounted witnessing the harrowing scene where her mother was shot.

“It’s tough. I relied on my mother big time. She was the only parent I had. Five years ago, my dad passed away. He was also shot,” Lesego said.

Additionally, a family member, wishing to remain anonymous due to fears of retribution, indicated that Makwela had reported multiple instances of attempted murder and intimidation, claiming she had recognised some of the intruders during a prior incident. “The motive was to kill her,” the family member asserted, reflecting the heightened distress within the community.

While a family representative has expressed disappointment with the police response, the shock of Makwela’s murder continues to resonate among residents of Alexandra, who remember her as a dedicated and peace-loving member of their community.

During a memorial service held in Riverpark, a fellow JMPD member and pastor offered words of comfort, stating: “God is with you. He is closer to you. We have the comforter, which is the Holy Spirit. It will give us strength to move on and pick up the pieces. I encourage you to be strong and trust God. He is worthy of trust in times like these.”

Further compounding the tragedy, it has been reported that Makwela’s husband had previously fallen victim to similar violence, highlighting a devastating legacy of loss within her family. The investigation continues as JMPD works to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and ensure justice is served.

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