Key Takeaways
- A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the murder of two men at a tavern in Embalenhle on New Year’s Day
- The suspect was found hitchhiking in a white Nissan Almera and was arrested after a collaborative effort between various police units
- A firearm with ammunition and two magazines was recovered from the suspect, which is believed to be the weapon used in the murder incident
- The suspect is facing charges of unlawful possession of a firearm with ammunition and is still being investigated for his connection to the double murder incident
- The provincial police commissioner has praised the team for their determination and resolution in dealing with crime, stating that criminals will be arrested if they commit crimes in the province
Introduction to the Incident
A recent incident of double murder at a tavern in Embalenhle has led to the arrest of a 35-year-old man. The suspect is accused of fatally shooting Siyabonga Fortune Hlapo, 25, and Ratile Motloung, 24, on New Year’s Day. The police have been working tirelessly to apprehend the suspect, and their efforts have finally paid off. The arrest is a result of a collaborative effort between Crime Intelligence, Embalenhle Detective Services, Visible Policing, Secunda Flying Squad, and members from Kinross SAPS.
The Arrest and Recovery of Evidence
The suspect was arrested on Saturday, January 3, 2026, after he was found hitchhiking in a white Nissan Almera between Leandra and Devon. During his arrest, a firearm with ammunition and two magazines was recovered. The serial number of the seized firearm was filed off, which has raised suspicions that it may have been used in the commission of the crime. The police believe that this firearm could be the one used in the murder incident, and it will undergo ballistic testing to determine its connection to the crime. The recovery of the firearm is a significant breakthrough in the investigation, and it is expected to provide crucial evidence in building a case against the suspect.
Investigation and Charges
The suspect is currently facing charges of unlawful possession of a firearm with ammunition. However, the police are still investigating his connection to the double murder incident. The provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, stated that the police are working to determine whether the seized firearm was used in the commission of any other crimes, including the recent double murder incident in Embalenhle. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are following all leads to ensure that justice is served. The suspect’s arrest is a significant step towards bringing closure to the families of the victims and ensuring that those responsible for the crime are held accountable.
Reaction from the Provincial Police Commissioner
The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has praised the team for their determination and resolution in dealing with crime. He stated that the arrest is a testament to the police’s commitment to fighting crime and ensuring that those who commit crimes are brought to justice. The commissioner’s comments come as a reassurance to the public that the police are working tirelessly to keep the community safe. He warned criminals that if they commit crimes in the province, they will be arrested, emphasizing the police’s zero-tolerance approach to crime.
Conclusion and Future Developments
The arrest of the suspect in connection with the double murder incident at a tavern in Embalenhle is a significant development in the investigation. The recovery of the firearm and the ongoing investigation are expected to provide crucial evidence in building a case against the suspect. The police’s commitment to fighting crime and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable is a reassuring message to the community. As the investigation continues, it is expected that more information will come to light, and the police will work towards ensuring that justice is served. The community can expect to see more updates on the case as it unfolds, and the police will continue to work towards keeping the community safe.