By Staff Reporter
NKOWANKOWA-The identities of two police officers who died in a domestic violence-related incident at Ritavi Police Station in Nkowankowa have been officially released, leaving the community in deep shock.
The incident occurred shortly before midnight on Sunday, 7 December 2025, after a dispute between the two officers — a 40-year-old Sergeant attached to the Mopani District office and his 31-year-old girlfriend, a Constable stationed at Ritavi SAPS.
According to reports, the Sergeant visited the Constable’s rented residence in Nkowankowa, where an argument broke out. The Constable alerted Ritavi SAPS for assistance, and responding officers escorted her to the police station for safety.
It is further alleged that although the Sergeant initially left the area, he later diverted to Ritavi Police Station, where the fatal incident unfolded.
Identities Released
Constable: Tlhonolofatso Fredens Machete (31), from Mopje Village in Bolobedu South, stationed at Ritavi SAPS.
Sergeant: Matimba Gift Ngobeni (42), from Basani Village near Shigalo, stationed at the Mopani District Office.
Both officers were found unresponsive inside the police station, and emergency services declared them deceased at the scene. Cases of murder and an inquest have been opened for investigation.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) attended the scene and has taken over the case.
Senior police leadership, including the Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, visited the scene early on Monday morning. Hadebe expressed deep distress, especially as the country is currently observing the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
“This incident is a painful reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence, even within our own ranks. We urge members facing relationship conflict or emotional difficulties to seek professional help immediately,” she said.
The bodies of the two officers have been taken to Letaba Government Mortuary for further examination. Additional details will be released as investigations continue.
