Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE - The Polokwane High Court has sentenced Calvin Mphela Molomo (39) to life imprisonment for the murder of Tshwane Metro Police Officer, Mmatlala Margaret Matlala (40), during a series of house robberies in Bakenberg village, Waterberg district, in November 2021.

During the trial, evidence revealed that Molomo and two accomplices travelled from Gauteng to execute a robbery spree, targeting three homes. In the first incident, they stole dagga and cash. At the second residence, they assaulted the homeowner with firearms and discharged shots. During their third attack, they fatally shot Officer Matlala while robbing her of cash.

As they fled, Matlala's brother arrived home, and the suspects fired shots at his vehicle, but he escaped unharmed. The police responded swiftly, pursuing the suspects who abandoned their vehicle and fled on foot. The vehicle was seized, leading to further investigations.

One accomplice surrendered shortly after the incident, while the second was arrested in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, in February 2022 through a collaborative operation between Limpopo and Gauteng police. Molomo was apprehended the same day in Tembisa, found in possession of three unlicensed firearms and 101 rounds of ammunition, one linked to the crimes.

Sergeant Ramokone Lucy Mokhonoana led the investigation, resulting in multiple convictions for Molomo. The other two accused were acquitted for the crimes.

The sentences are as follows:

Count 04: Murder – Life imprisonment
Count 06: Robbery with aggravating circumstances – 15 years’ imprisonment
Count 09: Attempted murder – seven years’ imprisonment
Counts 13, 14, 15: Possession of unlicensed firearms – four years’ imprisonment each
Count 17: Possession of unlicensed ammunition – four years’ imprisonment
Counts 6 and 17 will run concurrently. The court also declared Molomo unfit to possess a firearm.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the investigating officer and all involved for their dedication in securing this significant sentence.

Ends

Enquiries:
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
082 451 7180

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