By Kopano Dibakwane
“ Anyone who attacks a police officer is directly attacking the state and will face the full might of the law”.
This is according to Mpumalanga SAPS (South African Police Service) Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr)Zeph Mkhwanazi, after mobilising a 72-hour Activation Plan to locate and arrest the perpetrators linked to the death of an off-duty police officer, Constable Khulani Chabangu(29), who was fatally shot in Lillydale Trust, Calcutta, on Friday 30 May 2025.
The deceased officer was reportedly stationed at Volksrust SAPS Visible Policing Unit, and has served SAPS for five years.
He was allegedly ambushed and shot multiple times by unknown armed suspects who had initially robbed him of his cellphone and car keys inside a barbershop in the area.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, said Chabangu was discovered lying on the ground unresponsive, facing upwards, half-naked with multiple gunshot wounds when the police and Emergency Services personnel arrived on the scene.
The victim was reportedly visiting the area at the time of the incident and the motive for the killing has not yet been established.
“ Preliminary investigation suggest that the deceased had parked his private vehicle outside a barbershop and entered the premises. While inside, two unknown armed suspects stormed in, ordered everyone to lie down and robbed them of their cellphones.
“ The victim was instructed to undress. The suspects took his clothing and car keys. It is further alleged that the victim followed the suspects outside, where he was shot multiple times. The suspects then fled in the victim’s vehicle,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The police are appealing to anyone with information that can assist the investigation, to contact the Investigating Officer, Lt-Col Skhumbuzo Ceko, on 082 992 9902, or alternatively send anonymous tips on Crime Stop number 0860 10111, or on MYSAPS App.
