Nine Free State Police Officers Arrested For Murder After Deadly Bultfontein Shooting

Nine police officers have been taken into custody by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) following a fatal shooting that left three civilians and a fellow officer dead in Bultfontein, Free State.

The arrests were made on Saturday and stem from an incident that occurred on 22 September 2024 in Phahameng township. The officers, who are part of the Bultfontein Public Order Police Unit, now face four counts of murder.

What Happened in Phahameng Township: Timeline of Events

According to IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping, officers were responding to a reported domestic dispute involving family members.

He stated that “as police officers tried to apprehend them, they locked themselves inside the house and barricaded all access points into the house.”

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Shuping further explained that “the police officers allegedly executed tactical entry into the house during which they discharged their firearms,” resulting in the deaths of three civilians and one police officer at the scene.

Police Officers Court Appearance Details

The crime scene revealed extensive gunfire, with “43 empty cartridge cases” recovered. IPID’s investigation confirmed that all four victims — three members of the same family and one officer — died from gunshot wounds.

The arrested officers, holding ranks ranging from constable to sergeant, are currently being held at Welkom police cells.

They are expected to appear before the Bultfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 13 April 2026.