News24 | Hawks seek man who may hold key to murder of cop in Cape Town

The Hawks are appealing for the assistance of Salim Mohamed Filoz, who may have information crucial to solving the murder of off-duty police officer, Constable Babalwa Dondashe.

The Hawks are appealing to a 33-year-old man, identified as Salim Mohamed Filoz, to come forward to help them with information that may be crucial in their investigation of the murder of an off-duty police officer.

On 3 May 2025, Constable Babalwa Dondashe, a mother of three who was stationed at the Bishop Lavis police station, was found dead in her private vehicle in Langa.

She had reportedly left her Kraaifontein home earlier to attend a church service in the area, but was shot dead.

Her car showed no signs of forced entry or damage, and both her cellphones were still in the vehicle.

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Police sources close to the investigation said the officer was targeted in a planned attack, and the people behind it appeared to have been following her for days.

Now, the Hawks are looking for the 33-year-old man to help them in their investigation.

Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi said: “We urged Filoz to come forward or for anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Simon Hlatshaneni, on 082 479 6265.”

Bishop Lavis ward councillor Angus McKenzie described the slain officer as a “well-liked and respected” member of SAPS, who worked in the management services division.

“The circumstances surrounding the murder are not known, and the Hawks have instituted a full-blown murder investigation.

“The killing of any officer is tantamount to terrorism, and such actions require nothing less than the full might of the law to be brought against the perpetrators,” said McKenzie.

“We are deeply hurt and sad, and we mourn the loss of this well-loved officer.”