POTCHEFSTROOM – The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena condemns the callous killing of a 36-year-old police Sergeant Julia Makgareetsa who was stationed in Marikana in the Bojanala Sub-District 2.
It is alleged that Visible Policing members were on Monday afternoon, 30 November 2020, following up on information about suspects who had been committing serious and violent crimes in the policing area. The suspects were at their hide-out at RDP Section, Rooikoppies in Marikana when they spotted the police and fled on foot. The police got out of their vehicles and chased the suspects. Following a shoot-out that ensued between the suspects and the police, Sgt Makgareetsa was allegedly struck by a bullet in the chest and succumbed to her injury while a 30-year-old suspect was wounded and arrested. The suspect who is currently under police guard in hospital, was found in possession of 9mm Norinco pistol loaded with two ammunition.
The Provincial Commissioner who has since mobilised the 72-hour Activation plan in an effort to track the remaining suspects, conveyed his condolences to the member’s family, relatives and colleagues. He pointed out that killing of police officers is totally unacceptable and will never be tolerated as that does not only affect the much needed service delivery, but also undermines the authority of the State.
Police request anyone who may have information that can assist in tracking the remaining suspects, to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Warrant Officer Matsie Segonyane on 071 481 2879 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via My SAPS App.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is investigating and the arrested suspect is expected to appear in court soon.

Source: South African Police Service