Cachalia
Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia has vowed that law enforcement “will not rest” until the fugitive accused of killing two detectives in Gauteng is back behind bars, following a brazen shooting that has shocked the nation and prompted a massive manhunt.
The incident unfolded on Friday morning, 8 August 2025, when detectives Sergeant Isaac Machaba and Warrant Officer Sello Joseph Machaka were transporting awaiting-trial prisoner Jabulani Thabang Moyo from the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court. Moyo, a Zimbabwean national facing charges of armed robbery, allegedly ambushed the officers near a BP garage in the Roodepoort CBD. Sergeant Machaba died at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds, while Warrant Officer Machaka succumbed to his injuries later at Milpark Hospital. Both officers, dedicated members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) from the West Rand Flying Squad, left behind grieving families and colleagues who remember them as brave servants of the law.
According to police reports, the attack happened around 10:30am as the detectives drove Moyo in a marked white VW Polo Vivo state vehicle. Moyo, who was handcuffed but managed to access a weapon—possibly one of the officers’ service pistols—opened fire inside the car. He then fled the scene in the same vehicle, which was later found abandoned in Horison View, Roodepoort, about 5km away. The two 9mm service firearms and the officers’ cellphones remain missing, raising fears that Moyo is armed and dangerous. SAPS forensics teams scoured the crime scene for evidence, including shell casings and CCTV footage from nearby businesses, to reconstruct the events.
Cachalia, stepping in as acting minister while Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is on leave amid an investigation into alleged interference in police operations, condemned the killings in the strongest terms. “We condemn the brazen act of violence in the strongest possible terms. An attack on the police is an attack on the state. We will not rest until Jabulani Moyo is behind bars,” he said. He confirmed that National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola had “deployed maximum resources to track down and apprehend the suspect,” including specialised units like the Hawks, tracking teams, and K9 dogs. A R100,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Moyo’s arrest, underscoring the urgency of the operation.
In a heartfelt tribute, Cachalia extended condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen detectives. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen detectives. Their sacrifice in the line of duty is a stark reminder of the daily dangers faced by our police officers as they work to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of all South Africans,” said Cachalia. “We owe them — and every officer who puts on the blue uniform — a debt of gratitude that words alone cannot fully express.” He added: “To the men and women in blue: we stand with you. We mourn with you. And we will continue to support you as you carry out your vital work on behalf of our nation.”
The minister urged the public to come forward with any leads, no matter how small. “We urge the public to come forward with information on the whereabouts of Jabulani Moyo immediately. No detail is too small, and your assistance could be critical in ensuring that justice is served,” he said. Police have provided channels for tips, including Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App, assuring informants of confidentiality.
Moyo, described as a 35-year-old man of medium build with short black hair, was last seen wearing a grey tracksuit top and blue jeans. He is considered highly dangerous and possibly still in the Gauteng area, though authorities have alerted border posts and neighbouring provinces. The SAPS has released his photo and details to the media, appealing for vigilance without approaching him directly.
This tragedy highlights the perilous nature of police work in South Africa, where officers face constant threats from criminals. In the 2023/2024 financial year, 37 police officers were killed on duty nationwide, with Gauteng recording the highest number at 12. The West Rand, known for high crime rates including armed robberies and hijackings, has seen similar incidents, such as the 2023 shooting of a detective during a stakeout in Krugersdorp. Community leaders in Roodepoort have called for increased patrols and better equipment for officers, while unions like the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) demanded swift justice and improved safety measures.
As the manhunt intensifies, tributes have poured in for Machaba and Machaka. Colleagues remembered Machaba, a 45-year-old father of three, as a dedicated investigator who cracked several high-profile cases, and Machaka, 52, as a mentor to younger officers with over 25 years of service. Funerals are expected to be held next week with full police honours, attended by senior officials.
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