News24 | Cop and civilian appear in court for 2020 murder of taxi owner in Polokwane

Victor Mashakeng and Sergeant Herbert Modiba. (Supplied)

A 46-year-old police officer and a civilian appeared in Seshego Magistrate's Court on Thursday in connection with the murder of a taxi owner.

Sergeant Herbert Modiba and Victor Mashakeng, 49, are accused murdering 41-year-old Tlou Godfrey Phihlela, who was shot multiple times near the Seshego Hospital, Polokwane, in October 2020.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said an extensive investigation was launched, ultimately leading to the two being identified as suspects.

'Further investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly hired by another taxi owner from Seshego, who was himself, murdered in April 2023 in Polokwane," he added.

"A warrant for their arrest was applied for and granted on 01 October 2024."

The men were arrested on Wednesday and appeared in the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

They both abandoned bids for bail.

The case has been postponed until 13 November, pending further police investigation.

Provincial police commissioner's Major-General Samuel Manala welcomed the arrests and praised the investigating team.