Two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members, aged 36 and 51, face arrest in connection with the murder of Lieutenant Colonel Frans Mathipa, a senior Hawks officer, and a separate kidnapping case.
The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation units and Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS) coordinated to arrest the suspects on Sunday, 22 June 2025, at OR Tambo International Airport and in Centurion, Pretoria.
Lt Col Mathipa was fatally shot while driving along the N1 highway near Hammanskraal on 6 August 2023.
After the shooting, his vehicle veered off the road and landed in a ditch. Mathipa, who was on duty, was part of the Hawks’ Crimes Against the State section in Gauteng.
Kidnapping Link and Vehicle Seized
As part of the investigation, officers seized a vehicle belonging to the 36-year-old suspect.
Authorities believe one suspect allegedly used the car to kidnap two foreign nationals at a Midrand shopping mall on 29 December 2022.
Police impounded the vehicle for forensic examination as they pursue additional leads into the suspects’ possible involvement in other organised crimes.
Court Appearance and Ongoing Investigation
Both suspects are due to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 June 2025. Facing charges of murder and kidnapping.
The Hawks confirmed that they may make further arrests as the investigation continues.
Authorities are investigating whether the suspects are part of a larger criminal network.
Are authorities doing enough to protect law enforcement officers from targeted attacks?
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