Limpopo police sergeant kills man, rapes 14-year-old girl before fatally shooting himself - IOL

Man, 32, was allegedly shot dead by a Limpopo police sergeant, who later allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl before taking his own life at his residence.

A Limpopo police sergeant stationed at Mecklenburg SAPS allegedly shot and killed a 32-year-old man before returning home, where he allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl and later fatally shot himself.

Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said according to preliminary information, police were alerted to a shooting incident at Ga-Mashamothane at approximately 3:30pm on Sunday.

“Members responded to the scene and found a 32-year-old man lying on the ground with gunshot wounds.”

The man was certified dead at the scene by Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

Ledwaba said it is alleged that the incident occurred after the victim and the police officer encountered each other while driving along a narrow road. 

“A dispute reportedly ensued between the two men before the police officer allegedly shot the victim with his service firearm and left the scene.”

“The suspect allegedly thereafter drove to his residence with a 14-year-old girl who had been accompanying him.”

Ledwaba said the minor was allegedly raped at the police officers’ residence in Ga-Masha, Sekhukhune District.

“It is further alleged that shortly afterwards, the suspect took his service firearm and fatally shot himself.”

Ledwaba said police in Tubatse, Sekhukhune District, have opened cases of murder and rape, as well as an inquest. 

He said the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) had been notified and would take over the further investigation. 

“Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing,” he said.

Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers has condemned the incident.

“Police officers are entrusted with firearms and are expected to uphold and enforce the law. Where a member is alleged to have acted contrary to the law, the circumstances must be thoroughly investigated and the appropriate processes must follow.”

“We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and assure the affected minor that she will receive the necessary support,” Scheepers added.