A lengthy pursuit by the South African Police Service (SAPS) garnered success after a suspect was arrested on Sunday, 7 January, for a triple murder, which also claimed the life of a LEAP officer, that took place in Old Crossroads in May last year.
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According to police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut, the 33-year-old suspect, along with another 29-year-old suspect, were apprehended in Philippi during a tracing operation conducted by a multi-disciplinary task team.
‘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 Traut.
The 33-year-old is expected to make his court appearance in Athlone this morning.
‘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,’ Traut added.
LEAP officer Siphelo Magwa, who was off duty at the time of the incident, was a passenger in a VW Polo Vivo alongside his brother and one other person on 18 May 2023 when they came under fire.
All three occupants died on the scene.
Any person with information regarding the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects is kindly requested to contact investigating officer Deputy Captain Lukhanyo Magadla on 082 411 3245 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The 33-year-old, along with two other suspects, is also wanted in connection with the murder of another LEAP officer, Zamikhaya Kwinana, who was killed at the height of the violent taxi strike that took place in August last year.
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