Suspect to appear in court in connection with triple murder in Crossroads

Western Cape police made a breakthrough in a triple murder case that took place in Old Crossroads, last year, which claimed the life of a LEAP officer.

The 33-year-old suspect will appear in the Athlone Magistrates Court on Tuesday morning, after police arrested him in Phillipi on Sunday.

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The police’s Andre Traut says the suspect was arrested alongside his friend.

‘’They were found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition during their arrest and while both will face the firearm related charge, the 33-year-old suspect was the only one charged for the triple murder case,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut.

24-year-old LEAP officer, Siphelo Magwa, was sitting in a vehicle with his brother and one other person on 18 May 2023, when the officer, who was off duty at the time, was shot and killed in Sonwabile Drive Old Crossroads.

Police said more arrests are imminent.

‘’The investigation is still underway and detectives attached to the provincial serious and violent crime unit are in search of more suspects who perpetrated the murders on the fateful afternoon in Sonwabile Drive Old Crossroads,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut.

Mayco Member for Safety & Security, JP Smith, said he is hopeful that more arrests will be made.

‘’Our enforcement agencies are doing everything possible to support our SAPS in strengthening the thin blue line that protects communities from such forces of evil. When that line is threatened and any of our members are targeted, we must do everything possible to defend that line and bring those responsible to justice.’’

‘’This must send a strong message out to any criminal who dares to threaten the safety of any of our officers, who dedicate themselves to holding the line. We will leave no stone unturned in finding you and holding you to account for your actions,’’ said Smith.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Lindikhaya Mbeki (with the alias of "Whitey,") or that of Khangelani Mbobo (also known as "KG,") are asked to contact Deputy Chief Brand on 082 860 5139.

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Smith reminded the public that a R1.35 million is still available, in the successful apprehension and prosecution of the suspects.

Any person with information regarding the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects is kindly requested to establish contact with the investigating officer, D/Capt Lukhanyo Magadla on 082 411 3245 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

 

Done By: Mitchum George