A policeman from Chavani, Const Patrick Rivombo (30), allegedly shot and killed his wife, Mitaketo Baloyi (27), before turning his fire-arm on himself. The incident took place at Chavhani on Friday evening.

It is alleged that the tragedy followed an argument between the two. The statement from the police indicates that after Rivombo realised that his wife was dead, he shot himself in the head and died instantly.

According to Makhado cluster spokersperson W/O Kedibone Mabatha, Rivombo arrived late for duty last Friday and mentioned that he was having family problems. He then asked his senior to go home to fetch something. He was accompanied by another policeman.

Mabatha said that Rivombo then went to his wife's house and didn’t find her. He met her at the gate, however, where an argument started. The policeman who accompanied him intervened and, according to the police statement, Rivombo said "I will shoot you" to her and went back to the police van to fetch his firearm, Mabatha said.

The policeman then heard shots and rushed to them, but realised that both were dead. “The motive for the shooting is not known at this stage and will form part of the investigation. A murder docket has been opened and the matter is under investigation by the police”.

Makhado SAPS spokesperson Const Irene Radzilane said it was saddening to find that they were losing members who left children behind. Radzilane said that Rivombo had displayed exceptional dedication and determination in his work. “We lost not an ordinary person, but a dedicated policeman with many years of service. We urge all to emulate his good work."

The two will be buried tomorrow (Saturday) at the Chavani cementry. The event will start at 06:00.