In a major breakthrough, Mpumalanga police have arrested a 32-year-old suspect in
connection with the murder of Police Captain Sibusiso Bethwell Mthombothi (33) on
January 13, 2024. The suspect, who allegedly shot and robbed Mthombothi of his
service firearm in Kanyamazane, was apprehended in the early hours of Wednesday
during a joint operation by the Provincial Tracking Team, Crime Intelligence, and
Tactical Response Team.

After the fatal shooting, the suspect had been on the run until police received a tip-off
about his whereabouts in Sifunindlela, Kabokweni. Acting on the intelligence, the team
swiftly launched an operation and cornered the suspect hiding in a residence.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela praised
the efforts of the police and expressed gratitude towards the community for their
valuable information. “We are indeed encouraged by the partnership that we have with
members of the community. Let us proceed with our relationship, which is of great
importance as most often, it produces desired results in terms of fighting the scourge of
crime,” she stated.

The suspect is expected to appear at the Pienaar Periodical Court on Friday, March 22,
2024, facing a murder charge, with the possibility of additional charges as the
investigation continues. Manamela urged the public to continue assisting law
enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat crime.