Nine murder-accused Free State cops out on bail -case postponed
Nine police officers from the Free State, accused of killing a colleague and three civilians during a 2024 police operation, have been released on bail after the state chose not to oppose their release. The case has been postponed to allow prosecutors to decide on a trial venue.
The accused appeared before the Bultfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 13 April 2026, where they were granted bail of R3,000 each. The matter was adjourned to 26 May 2026, at which point the Free State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) will determine the appropriate forum for trial proceedings.
Charges
All nine officers face four counts of murder. The accused are Sergeants Edward Mokake (45), Shadrack Kabuza (45), and Tseliso Mohoboko (44), alongside Constables Johannes Mohau (30), David Mofothi (31), Lebohang Senxesi (34), Ikaneng Maropeng (42), Teboho Monaune (37), and Lehlohonolo Morapedi (38). Six of the officers hail from Bultfontein, two from Welkom, and one from Sasolburg.
How the case stems
The case stems from a police operation that took place on 22 September 2024 in the Phahameng township. According to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid), members of the Public Order Policing Unit responded to a domestic dispute at a residential property. After the family members involved reportedly barricaded themselves inside, officers executed a tactical entry. During the operation, multiple shots were discharged. Constable Mojalefa Borole, aged 30, was killed alongside civilians Mmota Maleka (36), Lobisa Maleka (28), and Kresemese Maleka. A total of 43 spent cartridge cases were recovered from the scene.
Evidence
Ipid spokesperson Phaladi Shuping stated that investigators had compiled sufficient evidence to justify the arrests. He noted that the officers were cooperative, having handed themselves over, which influenced the state’s decision not to oppose bail. Shuping also confirmed that the families of the deceased had been kept informed throughout the investigative process via a designated Ipid liaising officer.
The future of the accused within the South African Police Service (Saps) now rests with internal disciplinary processes. Shuping clarified that Saps would decide whether the officers will remain on duty pending the outcome of the criminal case.
Meanwhile, the arrests have prompted concern within the local community. Bultfontein Community Policing Forum Chairperson George Masheane told SABC News that the incident is disturbing, noting that the town already faces crime challenges and relies on a fully staffed police service. He warned that a shortage of officers could create additional problems. In response, Saps management has reportedly deployed supplementary resources to the Bultfontein police station to ensure continued service delivery.
The case continues to draw public attention as the judicial process moves forward.
