AfriForum has instructed its legal team to institute a watching brief in the murder case of South African Air Force Sergeant Michael Swanton, citing concerns that the alleged political connections of the accused could compromise the integrity of the judicial process.
This comes after two VIP protection officers assigned to Madibeng Local Municipality were released on R20,000 bail each following the fatal shooting of Swanton. The accused, Thabang Eugene Sohole 41 and Michael Makampe 42, face charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice, and using a vehicle fitted with blue lights unlawfully.
The incident occurred on January 28, when Swanton and his wife, both members of the South African National Defence Force, were stopped by a BMW SUV fitted with flashing blue lights. Swanton was allegedly shot while trying to verify whether the men were legitimate police officers.
Regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Lumka Mahanjana, said the State opposed bail, arguing that the accused might try to influence witnesses or interfere with the investigation. However, the magistrate found exceptional circumstances for bail but ordered that the accused not contact any state witnesses.
The case has been postponed to April 9, 2026, for further investigation.
AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety, Jacques Broodryk, said the organisation’s decision to monitor the proceedings is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the case. He said AfriForum will independently observe court proceedings, track the progress of investigations and scrutinise any developments that could point to possible interference or improper influence in the legal process.
“The rule of law must apply equally to all. No individual, regardless of political affiliation or position, is above accountability. AfriForum will monitor this case closely to ensure that justice is not only done but is clearly seen to be done,” said Broodryk.
“The accused, who have since appeared in court and were granted bail, are politically connected individuals who were appointed under questionable circumstances. Serious concerns have been raised about the apparent use of blue lights and conduct consistent with the impersonation of police officials, allegedly with the approval or knowledge of Mayor Maimane,” he said.
He further added that AfriForum believes that the granting of bail in this matter sends a troubling message to the public, particularly in light of the seriousness of the charges and the broader context of alleged political protection and abuse of authority. He said that given the reputation of so-called “blue light brigades” for lawless behaviour and alleged political protection, it is critical that this case be dealt with justly.
“Where individuals who are politically connected stand accused of such a grave crime, the public is entitled to absolute transparency and an uncompromised judicial process. The impression of political interference in criminal proceedings erodes public trust in the rule of law and creates the perception that there are two justice systems: one for the politically connected and one for ordinary citizens.
“The circumstances surrounding this case raises red flags that cannot be ignored. AfriForum believes the accused pose a potential danger to society and should never have been granted bail,” he added.
Broodryk reiterated that AfriForum remains committed to ensuring accountability, combating abuse of power and safeguarding communities against individuals who misuse authority under the guise of public office.
The Star
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