Nine police officers arrested for 2024 Bultfontein murders

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate Ipid has arrested nine police officers in connection with the alleged murder of three civilians and a fellow officer in the Free State. The arrests took place on Saturday at the Bultfontein police station following an investigation into a September 2024 shooting incident in Phahameng township. Ipid spokesperson Phaladi Shuping stated that the officers, who are part of the Bultfontein Public Order Police POP Unit, face four counts of murder. The incident reportedly began when POP members responded to a domestic dispute where family members were involved in a fight. As police attempted to apprehend them, the individuals barricaded themselves inside a house. During a tactical entry by the police, firearms were discharged, leading to the deaths of three civilians, all members of one family, and Constable Mojalefa Borole, who was on duty. Ipid's investigation revealed that all deceased individuals died from gunshot injuries, and 43 empty cartridge cases were recovered from the scene. The nine officers, holding ranks of constable and sergeant, were detained at the Welkom holding cells and are expected to appear in the Bultfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday.