Ohrigstad Police Officer in Court for Defeating the Ends of Justice

 56-year-old police officer, Warrant Officer Tikishi Gilbert Makofane, appeared before the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 16 October 2025, facing a charge of defeating the ends of justice.

Makofane, who is stationed at Ohrigstad Police Station under the Sekhukhune District, was granted R500 bail and is expected to make his second court appearance at the Leboeng Magistrate’s Court on 28 October 2025.

According to police reports, on 15 November 2024, members of the Ohrigstad SAPS Crime Prevention Unit intercepted a minibus transporting suspected stolen water pipes. The occupants allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations about the origin of the pipes and were taken into custody. The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was also confiscated.

While police were still processing the case, Makofane allegedly took the keys of the impounded minibus and handed them over to the owner without following proper procedures or informing the Investigating Officer. When police later tried to complete the seizure process, the vehicle was missing from the station premises.

A case of defeating the ends of justice was opened and referred to the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for investigation, which ultimately led to Makofane’s arrest.

Police investigations into the matter are still continuing.