Three accused of killing Evaton police officer granted bail

SEBOKENG - Two Evaton police officers, Sergeant Piet Matsoso and Sergeant Siyabonga Kunene, along with their friend Hofney Morobe, appeared in the Sebokeng Magistrates’ Court for the murder of Constable Gift Mokoena. The trio faces multiple charges, including murder, assault, robbery, defeating the ends of justice, and handling a firearm while under the influence. The charges relate to an incident on 16 May 2021, when the trio, off-duty, allegedly assaulted occupants of a vehicle suspected in a robbery. It is further alleged that Morobe fatally shot Mokoena using Matsoso’s service firearm. According to NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, the trio handed themselves over on 30 June 2025. The state did not oppose bail, citing their cooperation and verified addresses. Bail of R1,000 each was granted without conditions. The case is postponed to 4 September 2025 for a directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions.