Free State crime surge: Murder investigation heats up as conviction sends shockwaves

The Free State has been rocked by two major crime developments, a murder investigation in Phuthaditjhaba and conviction in Harrismith.

In Phuthaditjhaba, the police are probing the killing of a local taxi owner, who was found dead in his car near a driving school on August 15. The victim, who had been shot multiple times, was discovered after witnesses heard gunshots in the area.

The motive for the crime remains unclear, and police are seeking public assistance to help with the ongoing case.

Phuthaditjhaba murder investigation

Unpacking to Kasi Voice News, police spokesperson in the region Mophiring said, on August 15, 2024, Phuthaditjhaba police were alerted to a disturbing crime scene near a local driving school.

“The police found the lifeless body of a man, later identified as a taxi owner from Majakathata’s taxi rank, inside his white Toyota Etios sedan. The vehicle was parked near the driving school, where the victim had earlier in the day inquired about obtaining a Code 10 driver’s license. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots around 3:00 PM, but the area quieted down soon after,” Mophiring said.

The victim was found with multiple gunshot wounds and significant blood loss, leading to immediate speculation about the motive behind this violent act.

Phuthaditjhaba police have launched a comprehensive investigation but have yet to determine the reason behind the murder. They are actively seeking assistance from the public to solve the case. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Phuthaditjhaba detective service at 079 889 3311, crime stop at 08600 10111, or use the MySapsApp.

Harrismith conviction highlights justice system’s success

In a related development, the Free State justice system has made headlines with a significant conviction in the Harrismith area. On August 19, 2024, the National Prosecuting Authority, in conjunction with Tseki Detectives, secured a high-profile conviction in the case of Oupa Mthombeni, who was murdered in November 2021.

Mthombeni, a businessman from Leribe village in Qwaqwa, was shot dead in front of his home upon returning from work. His murder was accompanied by the theft of his Toyota Hilux bakkie, three firearms, a video camera, and a Rolex wristwatch. The brutal crime shocked the local community and prompted a large-scale investigation.

Velaphi Paulos Mange was found guilty of murder and aggravated robbery and sentenced to life imprisonment plus an additional 15 years. His co-accused, Tsietsi Arnold Moloi, was sentenced to six years for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The trial, which took place at the Bloemfontein High Court and was later handled at the Harrismith Magistrate Court, resulted in the conviction of these two suspects while the other two accused were acquitted.

The case was marked by a thorough investigation that led to the arrest of the suspects in Carltonville, Gauteng Province.

The police recovered the stolen vehicle, firearms, video camera, and wristwatch during their operation, underscoring their commitment to addressing and solving serious crimes.