The Kimberley Prospector

KIMBERLEY – The Roodepan South African Police Service (SAPS) is currently conducting an investigation into a disturbing murder-suicide that took place on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at approximately 23:00 in Lerato Park, Kimberley. The incident involved a married couple, both serving as police officials within the SAPS.

Preliminary reports suggest that the couple, identified as a 42-year-old husband and a 41-year-old wife, were engaged in an alleged domestic dispute at their residence. The husband, identified as a Sergeant attached to Galeshewe Magistrate’s Court, reportedly fired multiple shots into a vehicle, resulting in the fatal wounding of his wife. Subsequently, the husband turned the weapon on himself.

The tragic incident has left the community in shock and mourning. The wife, a Constable at the Barkly West Police Station, and her husband both succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, the Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officers. She urged members of the SAPS facing difficulties and challenges to seek assistance, highlighting the availability of the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness section for support.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder-suicide is ongoing, with the Roodepan SAPS committed to unravelling the details of this tragic event. Authorities are appealing to the public to provide any information that may assist in understanding the events leading up to the incident.

This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the emotional toll that law enforcement officers may face in their line of duty, emphasizing the importance of mental health and support within the police force. The community, along with the SAPS, mourns the loss of two dedicated officers, and investigations continue to shed light on the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event.