Two suspects arrested in connection with the brutal murder of Mpumalanga police officer Sergeant Lauwrence Dumisani Mtshweni have abandoned their bid for bail.
Rodgers Silinda (27) and Tsepo Trevor Mashele (27) appeared in the Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court in Malalane on Tuesday, where they told the court they would remain in custody.
“It is reported that both suspects abandoned their bail application and the case was postponed to October 2, 2025, for further investigation,” said provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli.
Mtshweni, a 47-year-old officer with 18 years of service at Schoemansdal Police Station, was gunned down while responding to a burglary on August 9. He sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the upper body and later died in hospital.
Fortified response
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, responded to the killing by deploying specialised units, detectives, intelligence operatives, the provincial tracking team, and private-sector experts to track the suspects.
“The attack on police officers is an attack on the state, and people should assist in putting an end to these criminals before they perpetuate further crime,” Mkhwanazi said. “We are on the heels of these heartless criminals, and we will not rest until we find each one of them.”
The tragedy unfolded when officers rushed to business premises in Schoemansdal after receiving reports of a burglary. As they arrived, they were met with gunfire. Mtshweni was struck during the exchange and rushed to hospital, where doctors were unable to save him.
SAPS confirmed that at least ten suspects were involved in the incident. While Silinda and Mashele are behind bars, others remain on the run.
In a dramatic turn, police said three alleged suspects linked to the killing died in Eswatini last week. Two were fatally shot, and another allegedly turned the gun on himself.
Police have urged the public to come forward with information. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or via the MYSAPSAPP.
Mdhluli said all information would be treated with strict confidentiality as the manhunt continues.
