Police detective appears in court over Sebokeng murder allegedly triggered by chicken gizzards dispute
What began as an ordinary stop to buy food allegedly ended in a burst of gunfire that left one man dead, several others injured and a South African police detective facing some of the most serious criminal charges under the law.
Detective Constable Elias Moeketsi Pinkoane, 34, who is attached to the Orange Farm Police Station, appeared in the Sebokeng Magistrates’ Court on charges of murder, attempted murder, handling a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and discharging a firearm in a public place.
According to Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority communications officer Tshegofatso Makhudu, the incident unfolded during the morning of 12 July 2026 at BK Lifestyle in Sebokeng.
The State alleges that Pinkoane went to the establishment to buy chicken gizzards but was told that the popular meal had already sold out.
Prosecutors say he then asked the vendor who had bought the final portion. The vendor allegedly pointed out another customer, setting in motion a confrontation that investigators claim quickly escalated.
According to the NPA, the detective approached the customer and an argument broke out between the two men. During the exchange, the customer reportedly offered Pinkoane one skewer of chicken gizzards as a gesture to resolve the disagreement.
However, the State alleges that Pinkoane demanded additional portions for his girlfriend. When the customer refused, tensions allegedly intensified.
The prosecution further claims that Pinkoane walked to a state vehicle, retrieved a firearm through the vehicle window and returned to the scene before opening fire in the direction of the customer and several people who were standing nearby.
Moments that allegedly began with a disagreement over food ended in devastating consequences.
Police officers who were already patrolling the area responded to the shooting. The victim’s brother was declared dead at the scene, while several injured people were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.
Authorities say Pinkoane fled after the shooting but was arrested later the same day at his home.
The case has drawn significant public attention because the accused is a serving police officer and the firearm allegedly used in the shooting was retrieved from a state vehicle.
Pinkoane remains accused of murder, attempted murder, handling a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and discharging a firearm in a public place. The allegations against him have not yet been tested in court, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The matter was postponed to 20 July 2026 to allow the accused time to appoint legal representation and to prepare a formal Schedule 6 bail application.
The case is expected to return to the Sebokeng Magistrates’ Court, where prosecutors are likely to oppose bail as proceedings continue.
