A 59-year-old Zimbabwean domestic worker, Tendai Mafunya, has been arrested in Pretoria in connection with the murder of a Gauteng Highway Patrol SAPS officer.
Police linked weapons and vehicles found at her employer’s residence to the crime, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation.
Key Discovery in the Probe
According to AfroGazette, the arrest followed a police operation at the Centurion Ecopark Estate home of Nkosinathi George Manuse, a key figure under investigation.
Upon arrival, officers found Mafunya as the sole occupant of the residence.
During questioning, she confirmed that Manuse owned the property, authorities are still determining his direct involvement in the case.
Cache of Weapons and Vehicles Confiscated
According to SundayWorld, police conducted a thorough search of the property, uncovering an arsenal of weapons and vehicles believed to be connected to the officer’s murder.
Police seized AK-47 rifle magazines, a 9mm pistol, and two-way radios during their search.
They also confiscated three vehicles: a silver-grey Kia Sorento with false registration, a blue BMW, and a Polo GTI.
Police believe the suspects used the vehicles in the crime, and forensic experts are analysing evidence to confirm their involvement.
Investigators are examining DNA and fingerprint evidence to confirm their link.
Mafunya in custody
Police transported Mafunya to Lyttleton police station, where she remains in custody for possession of illegal weapons and vehicles linked to the case.
Authorities called in the local criminal record centre to gather further evidence, and investigations continue as police work to identify all individuals involved.
Surge in Police Murders Raises Concern
South Africa has seen a worrying increase in police officer murders in recent years.
According to The Citizen, between April 2023 and March 2024, 39 officers were killed in the line of duty—nearly double the previous year’s figure.
In January 2025, The Citizen reported that a gunman fatally shot Sergeant Fundiswa Motlhaoleng while she was on her way to work in Klerksdorp, highlighting the risks law enforcement officers face.
Authorities are continuing their efforts to determine the full extent of Mafunya’s involvement and whether further arrests will follow.
As investigations progress, police will share updates on forensic findings and potential legal action against additional suspects.
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