A 39-year-old man accused of murdering a police sergeant has appeared before the Tiyani Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo.
The accused, Awelani Kennedy Matumba, was remanded in custody, with the matter postponed to Tuesday, 14 April 2026, for a formal bail application and further police investigations.
According to police, the incident stems from a shocking double murder that took place at Nkuna Kraal Mall in Nkuzana village on Saturday, 09 August 2025, at approximately 15:00.
It is alleged that the female victim, a police sergeant, was out with two adults and her six-year-old child when her estranged husband — from whom she had been separated for about seven months — approached her.
A heated argument reportedly broke out between the couple.
Police say the suspect allegedly took a service firearm and shot the female sergeant in the upper body.
In a dramatic turn of events, as the suspect attempted to flee the scene, members of the community who witnessed the incident chased him down, assaulted him, and set him alight next to his vehicle.
The vehicle was completely burnt in the process.
Police confirmed that murder cases were opened following the incident.
Two additional suspects, aged 31 and 35, were arrested on 20 and 26 August 2025 in connection with the case.
Matumba, believed to be an accomplice, was arrested on Tuesday, 07 April 2026, at a hideout within the policing area.
The deceased have been identified as Sergeant Mavhetha Ottaniel, attached to the Thohoyandou K9 Unit, and Sergeant Mavhetha Rembuluwani, who was stationed at the Beit Bridge Port of Entry.
Police have appealed to the public for assistance in locating any remaining suspects.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Stanley Chauke on 072 554 3141, visit their nearest police station, or call the Crime Stop toll-free number 08600 10111.
Information can also be shared anonymously via the MySAPSApp.