The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) is mourning the loss of one of its officers, Matome Mokoena, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on the evening of Wednesday, May 14, 2025, during an armed robbery incident in Vlakfontein, south of Johannesburg.
The fatal incident unfolded when JMPD officers on patrol received a report of an ongoing robbery involving suspects travelling in a white Volkswagen Polo. Responding swiftly, the officers tracked down the vehicle in the Vlakfontein area.
According to official reports, as Officer Mokoena approached the vehicle to engage the suspects, he was fired upon at close range. His colleagues were forced to take cover amidst the gunfire, but the suspects pursued the officer into a nearby residence, where he was fatally shot.
In a brazen act, the armed suspects stole Mokoena’s service firearm and commandeered a marked JMPD patrol vehicle from the scene. The stolen police vehicle was later recovered in Lehae after being remotely disabled by JMPD’s Fleet Services unit.
JMPD Chief Commissioner Patrick Jaca, addressing media on Thursday, May 15, described the incident as “a dark day for the JMPD,” condemning the attack as a “cowardly and heinous act” against a dedicated officer committed to protecting the community.
“This is a devastating loss for the JMPD family and Officer Mokoena’s loved ones. We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice,” Jaca said.
It has also emerged that the same group of suspects may be linked to the fatal shooting of a civilian in the area that same night. While investigations are ongoing, authorities have confirmed a full-scale manhunt is underway, with JMPD working closely alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS) to apprehend the perpetrators.
Residents of Vlakfontein and broader Johannesburg have expressed shock and outrage over the incident, with local leaders calling for urgent action to address rising violent crime in the area.
Officer Matome Mokoena, aged 33, is remembered by colleagues as a dedicated and courageous law enforcement officer, known for his commitment to upholding public safety in Johannesburg.
The JMPD has extended condolences to Mokoena’s family and confirmed that counselling services have been made available to the officers affected by the tragedy.
No arrests have been made yet, and authorities are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
