What began as a tense family standoff in Mamelodi East has ended in heartbreak.
On Monday, a 32-year-old police constable took his own life after fatally shooting his teenage nephew during a domestic hostage situation that lasted nearly the entire day.
How the Standoff Began
The ordeal started early in the morning, around 8 a.m., when local officers from Mamelodi East SAPS were called to a house following reports of gunfire and a violent family dispute.
Witnesses explained that Constable Thapelo Mashigo had already fired two shots and was refusing to let his 69-year-old mother and nephew leave the home.
Inside the House
Police confirmed that three people were inside: Mashigo, his mother, and his 18-year-old nephew.
Tensions remained high throughout the day as negotiators worked to persuade him to release his loved ones.
Negotiations and a Partial Breakthrough
Hostage negotiators spent more than 16 hours trying to defuse the situation. By 11 p.m., they succeeded in securing the release of Mashigo’s elderly mother, who was treated on the scene before being taken to hospital for further care.
A Tragic Ending
Just before midnight, as members of the Special Task Force prepared to force their way into the property, two gunshots rang out.
When officers entered, they discovered Constable Mashigo had turned the gun on himself after shooting his nephew, leaving both dead.
The Investigation
Authorities have since opened a case of murder, kidnapping, and an inquest at Mamelodi East Police Station.
The matter has also been handed over to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for a full investigation.
Who Was Constable Mashigo?
Mashigo served at Boschkop Police Station as part of the Essential Infrastructure Task Team.
He had joined the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 2019, and his sudden actions have left both colleagues and the community in shock.
Support for Family and Officers
The SAPS Employee Health and Wellness unit was on site and is continuing to provide psychological support to the grieving family and affected officers.
Police leadership has also urged members of the force, and the public, to seek professional help if struggling with emotional or mental health challenges, stressing that support services are available.