A 17-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 35-year-old Community Police Forum (CPF) patroller and the injury of two others in Masoyi, Mpumalanga. Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli reported that the incident occurred on Monday, and the suspect was handed over to the authorities by community members on Tuesday.

Mdhluli stated that the motive for the attack remains unknown and forms part of an ongoing investigation. “The victims were reportedly attacked by a male suspect armed with a knife. After the incident, the suspect fled the scene, while the injured victims were taken to a nearby clinic and later transferred to the hospital for further medical attention,” he explained.

Police have since recovered a knife believed to have been used in the crime. Due to the suspect’s status as a minor, investigators are working closely with probation officers. Preliminary investigations suggest that the teenager may also be linked to a previous stabbing that resulted in the death of a 50-year-old man in Mahushu in August 2023.

The suspect is expected to make a court appearance soon.

Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the attack on CPF members and expressed gratitude to the public for apprehending the suspect. “We cannot allow a situation of lawlessness to prevail. Those who commit crimes should know there are consequences. We hope that justice will be served for the victims,” said Mkhwanazi.