The murder case of Sergeant Lawrence Dumisani Mtsweni (47) was temporarily struck off the roll by the Tonga Magistrate’s Court on September 17, pending outstanding DNA results.

The three accused, Rodgers Silinda (28), Trevor Mashele (27) and Blessing Khoza (27), who were out on bail, made a brief appearance in court.

NPA Mpumalanga spokesperson Monica Nyuswa confirmed the decision, explaining that the prosecution will reinstate the case as soon as the outstanding forensic investigations are finalised.

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Cross-border operation follows fatal ambush

Mtsweni, a dedicated officer with 18 years of service in the Visible Policing Unit at Schoemansdal Police Station, was killed in the line of duty on August 9, 2025. He and his colleagues were responding to a business burglary in progress near Komatipoort when they were ambushed by a gang of about 10 armed suspects.

Mtsweni sustained gunshot wounds to his upper body during the attack. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. He was laid to rest on August 16, 2025.

The arrest of the trio followed a complex cross-border law enforcement operation between South Africa and Eswatini.

After the Mpumalanga police arrested the first suspect in South Africa, actionable intelligence led them across the border. Information was shared with the Royal Eswatini Police Service and the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force to track down additional suspects involved.

Two suspects traced to the Shiselweni region opened fire on the officers, who returned fire, fatally wounding both suspects. A third suspect, located shortly after in Mantambe, allegedly took his own life before officers could apprehend him.

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President Ramaphosa honours fallen officer at commemoration

Mtsweni’s ultimate sacrifice was formally recognised on September 6 at the Annual SAPS National Commemoration Day held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured Mtsweni alongside 11 other SAPS officers who lost their lives in the line of duty over the past year.

Addressing the fallen officers’ families and colleagues, the president described the event as more than a ceremony, calling it a national covenant of remembrance, solidarity with the families of the fallen, and responsibility towards those who continue to serve.