A 53-year-old police sergeant from Riba Cross in Burgersfort was found dead on Sunday, October 12, 2025, following a series of violent incidents over the weekend.
The sergeant, who was reportedly part of the Presidential Protection Service (PSS) in Pretoria, is alleged to have shot dead a female colleague in Pretoria on Saturday, before wounding his wife in Bronkhorstspruit less than a day later. Police later intercepted him near Burgersfort, where he reportedly fired at officers before turning the weapon on himself.
Following intelligence regarding his whereabouts, Limpopo police officers successfully intercepted the vehicle, a white Nissan, he was driving along the R555 road near Burgersfort. In an apparent confrontation, the sergeant fired a shot at the police before tragically turning the weapon on himself. The firearm used was confirmed to be a state-issued service pistol, raising further questions about access to duty weapons by law enforcement officers involved in domestic-related violence.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, expressed her sadness over the incident, highlighting the broader issue of domestic violence within police ranks.
“This tragedy once again highlights the urgent need for members to seek help when facing personal difficulties. We remain committed to supporting the well-being of our members while upholding the rule of law,” said Hadebe.
An inquest has been opened to investigate the circumstances around the sergeant's death, and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been informed, signalling a need for further scrutiny into the events that transpired.
Saturday Star