Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
01 September 2025
Three police constables, Lucky Shabangu, Musa Hlanzi, and Ina Mahlangu who are stationed in eMbalenhle, appeared in the Evander Magistrate’s Court on 28 August 2025 for a formal bail hearing in connection with the death of a local motorist.
The officers were arrested on Monday, 25 August 2025. They are reportedly linked to an incident following a traffic accident on 17 August 2025 in Extension 26.
According to witness statements, the officers allegedly pursued the motorist to a private residence and reportedly used bricks in the incident.
Witnesses also described seeing the officers attempting to move the injured motorist toward a police vehicle. Emergency services were called, and the motorist subsequently died.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been investigating the case. Senior investigator Michael Ziqubu testified in court regarding the sequence of events following the initial traffic accident, including the officers’ involvement and the response at the scene. Evidence collected during the investigation reportedly includes DNA traces found in a police van used in connection with the incident.
Concerns were raised by the NPA that if granted bail, the officers could potentially interfere with ongoing investigations, as they remain employed at eMbalenhle SAPS.
The court allowed the media to photograph the accused under certain conditions, including review by their legal representatives before publication
The officers have not been convicted, and the investigation is ongoing.
The matter has been postponed to 04 September 2025 for bail judgement.
