Photo: JMPD The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) is mourning the tragic loss of Officer Matome Mokoena (33) from Region G Operations, who was fatally shot nine times in Vlakfontein, Lenasia South, on 14 May 2025.
Officer Mokoena and his colleague were on routine patrol in the area when they responded to a reported robbery. They were provided with a description of the suspect vehicle, a white Volkswagen Polo.
“The officers successfully located the vehicle and initiated a stop. While the driver initially failed to comply, the officers managed to bring the vehicle to a halt. As Officer Mokoena approached the driver's side of the suspect vehicle, which contained five occupants, he was met with gunfire from inside,” said JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla.
Fihla added that both officers immediately sought cover. Tragically, the suspects pursued Officer Mokoena to a nearby residence where he was fatally shot. The attackers then stole his official JMPD firearm and the marked patrol vehicle, which was left idling at the scene.
The stolen vehicle was later disabled by Fleet Services and found abandoned in Lehea.
“We have also received reports of a member of the public being fatally shot in the same vicinity. Preliminary observations suggest that this incident may be linked to the same suspects involved in the attack on our officer,” Fihla noted.
Officer Matome Mokoena was a dedicated member of the JMPD, committed to serving and protecting the residents of Johannesburg. His untimely passing is a profound loss to the department and the community. The JMPD extends heartfelt condolences to Officer Mokoena's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
"This is a dark day for the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and the entire city," said JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca. "The brutal murder of Officer Mokoena is an attack on all law-abiding citizens. We will not rest until those responsible for this cowardly act are apprehended and face the full might of the law. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Mokoena's family, and we will ensure his sacrifice is not in vain."
The JMPD has condemned this senseless act of violence in the strongest possible terms. A full-scale investigation is underway in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
Councillor Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety, expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“A 72-hour manhunt has been activated to catch these criminals. If you have any information regarding this incident or any other crime, please report it to the JMPD hotline at 011 375 5911 or the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111,” said Dr. Tshwaku.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer. We stand together in solidarity with the JMPD and condemn the senseless killing of our law enforcement officer,” he added. “We appreciate the bravery and dedication of our JMPD officers and will continue to support them in their efforts to keep our city safe.”
Councillor Sarah Wissler, Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee, also condemned the attack.
“It is with profound sorrow and deep outrage that I condemn the brutal and senseless killing of JMPD Officer Matome Mokoena, who was fatally shot while responding to a robbery in Vlakfontein,” she said.
“Officer Mokoena demonstrated exceptional courage. He was ambushed, chased, and fatally shot by the suspects, who also stole his service firearm and patrol vehicle. This was not merely an attack on an individual officer—it was an attack on the safety of our city, the rule of law, and the values of public service.”
Wissler added: “We cannot and will not allow violent criminals to destabilise our communities or undermine our justice system. I stand in full solidarity with Commissioner Patrick Jaca and all members of the public safety fraternity in calling for swift justice.”
To Officer Mokoena’s loved ones, Johannesburg mourns with you. His bravery and ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten. May his memory serve as a guiding light in our continued pursuit of a safer, more just city.
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