Murdered inside police station: Limpopo sergeant kills female constable before dying by suicide
Limpopo police have opened a murder case and an inquest after two SAPS members died in a domestic violence incident at Ritavi Police Station.
Image: Leon Lestrade / Independent Newspapers
The provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has condemned the fatal shooting of a young police constable by her partner, a police sergeant, in an apparent domestic violence incident that unfolded at Ritavi police station in the early hours of Monday.
According to the SAPS, the 40-year-old sergeant, who was attached to the Mopani district office, went to the rental home of the 31-year-old constable based at Ritavi police station in Nkowankowa shortly before midnight on Sunday.
An argument reportedly broke out, prompting the constable to call colleagues at Ritavi SAPS for assistance.
Responding officers escorted her to the police station for safety. After initially driving away from the scene, the sergeant allegedly changed direction from Giyani and headed to Ritavi police station.
On arrival, he found the constable inside the police station, at the community service centre, where he shot her dead before turning the gun on himself. Both police officers were declared dead at the scene.
Police in Ritavi have opened a case of murder and an inquest. The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further investigation.
Lieutenant General Hadebe said she was deeply shocked and saddened, particularly as the killings occurred while the country is marking 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
Hadebe also noted that the province recently held a Polmed Symposium focusing on domestic violence, mental health and member well-being.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the destructive impact of domestic violence, even within our own ranks. We urgently appeal to all members experiencing relationship difficulties, emotional distress, or domestic conflict to seek professional help without delay,” Hadebe said.
She urged police members to make use of SAPS Employee Health and Wellness services rather than resort to violence.
The provincial commissioner also conveyed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the two deceased officers.
SAPS said further details will be released as investigations progress.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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