The Acting Provincial Commissioner of North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has welcomed the arrest of a police constable for murder and housebreaking.

Constable Kutlwano Joy Tshepe (29) was apprehended on Thursday evening, February 26 in Phokeng. This followed allegations that he broke into his ex-girlfriend’s house in Roma Section during the early hours of Thursday morning, and stole cash while she was hiding inside the residence. She reportedly escaped through an open window to a nearby family member’s house.

It is further alleged that the Cconstable then proceeded to the residence of his ex-girlfriend’s 33-year-old boyfriend, where he assaulted him. The victim was declared dead on the scene by Emergency Medical and Rescue Services (EMRS) after sustaining multiple injuries, including a severe head injury.

The accused made his first appearance in the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court on Monday. He was remanded in custody until his second court appearance before the same court on March 9 for a formal bail application. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is continuing with the investigation.

The Provincial Commissioner applauded the Phokeng Detectives for their vigilance, which led to the arrest. He stated that this case should serve as a warning to all SAPS employees involved in criminal activities that, if caught, they will face the full force of the law, including internal disciplinary processes.