Cape Town — John Manyaba, accused of murdering his girlfriend, Tshwane police officer Ramaabele Mothapo, appeared in court for the first time on Friday.
Manyaba faces charges of murder, theft of a motor vehicle, and defeating the ends of justice. According to EWN, the alleged murder occurred on Christmas Eve.
A police statement revealed that after allegedly killing Mothapo, Manyaba took her car and fled to Limpopo. He was later apprehended near Lebowakgomo.
Prosecutor Sihle Letsoalo stated that the State has affidavits from various individuals, including the investigating officer, to support bail proceedings. Letsoalo confirmed that the State intends to oppose bail for the accused.
Isaac Mahamba, Spokesperson for the Tshwane Metro Police Department, said Constable Ramaabele Mothapo was part of TMPD’s tactical team. TCG pic.twitter.com/B3cOKaNzwQ
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) January 3, 2025
According to IOL, Mothapo was fatally shot on Christmas Eve. TMPD spokesperson Isaac Mahamba said she will be laid to rest on Saturday, 4 January, in Hweleshaneng Village, Limpopo.
Mahamba highlighted Mothapo’s contributions to the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD), noting that she joined the department in December 2013 and was promoted to constable in December 2015.
“At the time of her passing, she was reporting to the Tactical Unit, rendering her service to the department, the City of Tshwane, and the community at large,” Mahamba said.
“The TMPD stands in solidarity during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of our departed colleague as they navigate this profound loss,” he added.
The case has been postponed to 22 January for a bail application, which the State has reiterated it will oppose.
[WATCH] The case against a man who allegedly murdered his partner, a Tshwane Metro police officer, has been postponed to the 22nd of January for a bail application. He made a brief court appearance in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court today. #Newzroom405‘s @NqobileMadlala_ has the… pic.twitter.com/FY9haStHmD
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) January 3, 2025
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
