IPID is investigating after a Limpopo police sergeant allegedly killed a man and raped a teenage girl in Ga-Mashamothane, Sekhukhune. Image credit Supplied
A Limpopo police sergeant allegedly shot dead a 32 year old man after a road rage dispute and then raped a 14 year old girl before taking his own life. The incidents happened in Ga-Mashamothane in the Sekhukhune district on Sunday afternoon.
The sergeant worked at Mecklenburg police station. According to police, he and the victim met on a narrow road while driving, and an argument broke out between them. Shortly after, the sergeant allegedly shot the man.
Police received a call about the shooting at about 15:30. Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers found the 32 year old man lying on the ground with gunshot wounds when they arrived.
What happened after the Limpopo police sergeant fled
The 14 year old girl was with the sergeant at the time of the shooting. Police say he then drove with her to his home, where he allegedly raped her.
Later, the sergeant took his own life. Police have not released his name or the name of the man he allegedly killed.
Police have opened cases of murder and rape, as well as an inquest into the sergeant’s death. In addition, police notified the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, which will lead the investigation because the incidents involve a serving officer and his official firearm.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers condemned the incident. He said the police entrust officers with firearms and expect them to uphold the law. He also sent condolences to the family of the man who died and promised support for the girl.
The case adds to growing concern about violence involving police officers, and about attacks on women and children across the country. Just last week, a Northern Cape court sentenced a father to life in prison for raping his 14 year old daughter.
For now, IPID investigators will piece together the full sequence of events, while the girl receives care and support.
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