By Staff Reporter
POLOKWANE – Police have released the identity of the man who was shot and killed during a filling station robbery in the Modjadjiskloof policing area.
The deceased has been identified as Mahlomola Ramatapa (38), a resident of Ga Sekgopo, Motseketla section. He was shot on Wednesday night, 21 January 2026, during a robbery at one of the local filling stations.
According to reports, the incident occurred at approximately 21h30 when a group of unknown male suspects, allegedly wearing balaclavas, stormed the filling station. One of the suspects was reportedly armed with a firearm.
It is alleged that the suspects entered the shop and stole packets of cigarettes estimated to be worth R6 800, as well as an undisclosed amount of cash from the safe.
During the robbery, patrons from a nearby tavern reportedly approached the filling station after noticing employees fleeing the scene. One of the armed suspects allegedly fired a shot in the direction of the patrons, striking Ramatapa.
The victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment but sadly succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Thursday, 22 January 2026, at around 02h00.
Police have opened cases of business robbery and murder for further investigation.
Anyone with information that may assist in the arrest of the suspects is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Erick Mathebula, on 083 239 0977, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or share information anonymously via the MySAPS App.
