Cop arrested after allegedly killing ex-girlfriend’s boyfriend

A 29-year-old police constable has been arrested after allegedly breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s home before killing her boyfriend in the North West. Constable Kutlwano Joy Tshepe was arrested on Thursday evening, February 26, in Phokeng following the early morning incidents in Roma Section, according to police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh. Police allege that Tshepe first broke into his ex-girlfriend’s house during the early hours of Thursday morning and stole cash while she hid inside the house.

“She reportedly escaped through an open window to a nearby family member’s house,” Myburgh said. It is further alleged that Tshepe then went to the home of his ex-girlfriend’s 33-year-old boyfriend, where he assaulted him. “The victim was declared dead on the scene by Emergency Medical and Rescue Services after sustaining multiple injuries, including a severe head injury,” Myburgh said.

Tshepe made his first appearance in the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court on Monday. He was remanded in custody and is expected to return to the same court on March 9 for a formal bail application. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is continuing with its investigation into the matter. Acting North West provincial commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo said the case should serve as a warning to South African Police Service members involved in criminal activities.