A police officer stationed at Hazyview Police Station shot and killed his girlfriend before taking his own life with his service pistol in Alexandria Trust, Calcutta, on September 23.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colone Fundiswa Maphanga, the officer, identified as Foster Matsane, was involved in a domestic dispute with his girlfriend, Thandeka Phenduka.

ALSO READ: Masoyi police officer pleads guilty to three counts of murder

SAPS received information about the incident as it was unfolding and dispatched members to the address. Shortly after their arrival, two gunshots were heard from inside the house.

When officers entered, they found Phenduka and Matsane with fatal gunshot wounds. Emergency services declared both dead at the scene.

Maphanga, confirmed that Calcutta police are investigating a murder case and that an inquest docket has been opened.

ALSO READ: Police officer allegedly kills wife and her two siblings in KaMajika

Phenduka and Matsane’s families described the incident as horrific and unexpected, and have requested privacy during this period of mourning.