Wife among suspects arrested after Free State businessman murdered

FOUR suspects, including the wife of the deceased victim, are expected to appear in court in the Free State on Monday on charges of murder.

The group was arrested shortly after the crime was perpetrated in Viljoenskroon.

The provincial police spokesperson, Captain Loraine Earle, said that on July 3, just before midnight, the police were called to the scene of a crime where a man was shot and killed in Engelbrecht Street.

“They found the body of the homeowner, Isaak Tladi, 51, in a pool of blood and he was declared dead at the scene. It is alleged that three armed men came into the house looking for the husband, who is a business owner. A fight ensued and shots were fired. The two sons, aged 17 and 20, managed to flee the scene and look for help. The suspects also fled,” Earle said.

The police immediately started their investigation and within hours they apprehended several suspects, including the wife of the deceased businessman.

One suspect was injured.

“One of the suspects who was injured during the incident is currently being hospitalised under police guard. The motive for the murder is being investigated. The suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday, July 8, 2024,” Earle said.

The police said one suspect is still at large and they have urged anyone with information to come forward and contact the investigating office, Detective Sergeant Masilo Moreki, at 082 301 3034. Alternatively, individuals can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or drop an anonymous tip on the MySAPS app.