Two police officers, Sergeant Ngoveni Matimba Gift, 40, and Constable Machete Tlhonologatso, 31, lost their lives in a tragic incident at Ritavi Police Station outside Tzaneen, Limpopo. Reports indicate that the sergeant, allegedly the constable’s boyfriend, shot and killed her before taking his own life.
The incident is believed to have stemmed from an altercation between the two officers, who were involved in a romantic relationship. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has opened an inquest and murder docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has expressed deep concern over the rising number of domestic-related incidents involving officers. Psychological support services are being provided to colleagues who witnessed the tragic event.
