Phokeng: Acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has expressed approval following the arrest of Constable Kutlwano Joy Tshepe, who faces charges of murder and housebreaking.
According to South African Government News Agency, Constable Tshepe, aged 29, was apprehended on Thursday evening in Phokeng. The arrest came after allegations surfaced that he broke into his ex-girlfriend's home in Roma Section during the early hours of Thursday, stealing cash while she hid inside. The ex-girlfriend reportedly managed to escape through an open window to a nearby relative's house.
Further reports indicate that the constable subsequently went to the residence of his ex-girlfriend's 33-year-old boyfriend, where an assault took place. Emergency Medical and Rescue Services declared the victim dead at the scene due to multiple injuries, including a severe head injury.
The accused appeared for the first time at the Tlhabane Magistrate Court on Monday. He has been remanded in custody and will reappear before the same court on Monday, 9 March 2026, for a formal bail application. Meanwhile, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate is continuing its investigation into the case.
Major General Naidoo commended the Phokeng detectives for their alertness, which led to the arrest. He emphasized that the case should serve as a cautionary tale for all South African Police Service employees involved in criminal acts, warning that they will face legal consequences and internal disciplinary measures if caught.