A 42-year-old police sergeant, Nyiko Nyathi, has been arrested for allegedly planning the kidnapping and murder of her husband and his female friend in Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Nyathi turned herself in at the Bushbuckridge police station, according to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli. She appeared in court on Monday, March 10, 2025, to face murder charges.

In February 2024, a group of armed men attacked 44-year-old Lawrence Alba Mashego at his home in Bushbuckridge. They stole his two cars, kidnapped him, and took him to another house in Zoeknog. There, they found his female friend, Victoria Lebyane, who had his bank cards.

The attackers stole R4,000 in cash and other bank cards from Lebyane. Later, they killed both Mashego and Lebyane.

Police launched an investigation, which led to the arrest of four suspects. One of them pleaded guilty and received a 77-year prison sentence. As the investigation continued, police found evidence linking Nyathi to the crime.

She was then arrested and taken to court. Her case has been postponed to Wednesday for a formal bail hearing.

Acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed Nyathi’s arrest. He assured the public that the police will not protect criminals, even if they are officers.

“The SAPS will not tolerate crime within its ranks,” said Mkhwanazi.

The case continues as authorities seek justice for the victims.