Madibeng mayor’s bodyguards accused of killing SANDF member granted bail

Two VIP protection officers have been granted R20,000 bail each following their arrest in connection with the murder of 36-year-old Michael Swanton, a former member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Thabang Eugene Sohole, 41, and Michael Makampe, 42, appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Friday facing charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice, and operating a vehicle with unauthorized blue identification lamps.

Couple Allegedly Stopped by VIP Protection Officers

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident began on January 28th around 8 pm when Swanton and his wife, Stephanie, were traveling along Es’kia Mphahlele Drive towards the R80. A dark BMW SUV, equipped with flashing blue lights, allegedly signaled them to stop.

The couple continued to the R80 towards Mabopane, where the accused allegedly forced their vehicle to the side of the road. We see alleged that Sohole and Makampe exited the BMW, one armed with an R5 rifle, and approached the Swantons’ vehicle. Michael Swanton was in the passenger seat, and his wife was driving.

Did You Know? The accused officers are assigned to Douglas Maimane, the mayor of the Madibeng Local Municipality.

The two officers allegedly questioned the couple about a missing rear number plate before returning to their vehicle. Swanton then reportedly approached the BMW to verify the occupants’ identities and their authority to conduct the stop.

Fatal Shooting and Surrender to Police

As Swanton approached the BMW, he was allegedly shot in the head and died at the scene. Hours later, Sohole and Makampe turned themselves in at the Hercules Police Station, claiming they were victims of an attempted hijacking and that a shooting had occurred on the R80.

Court Weighs Bail Conditions

The state prosecutor, Chris Maruma, opposed bail, arguing the suspects could potentially influence witnesses and obstruct the investigation. However, Magistrate Mphahlele granted bail, citing “exceptional circumstances.” As a condition of their release, the two officers are prohibited from contacting state witnesses directly or indirectly.

Expert Insight: The granting of bail despite the seriousness of the charges and the prosecutor’s objections highlights the complexities of the South African legal system and the court’s discretion in considering individual circumstances.

Family Mourns Former SANDF Sergeant

A family member, speaking anonymously, described the difficulty of processing Swanton’s death. Swanton, the youngest of three siblings, leaves behind two sisters, including one who traveled from London for his memorial service. He is survived by his parents and two young children, aged two and four.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges are the two officers facing?

Thabang Eugene Sohole and Michael Makampe are facing charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice, and operating a vehicle with blue identification lamps on an unauthorized public road.

Where did the alleged shooting take place?

The shooting allegedly occurred on the R80 road towards Mabopane, after the couple was initially flagged down on Es’kia Mphahlele Drive.

What did the accused officers claim when they surrendered to police?

Sohole and Makampe claimed they were victims of an attempted hijacking and that a shooting occurred on the R80.

What impact will this case have on public trust in VIP protection services remains to be seen, as investigations continue and the case is set to resume on April 9th.