Four suspects arrested for brutal hijacking and murder of LEAP officer Yonke Pakade

THREE more suspects have been arrested for the hijacking and murder of LEAP officer Yonke Pakade, who was viciously attacked over the weekend. 

This brings the total number of arrests to four, with the suspects expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of murder and hijacking.

The 26-year-old was off duty when he was hijacked. The attackers stabbed him multiple times, and stoned him.

Safety and security mayco member JP Smith said LEAP officers responded to the scene in Sheffield Road on Sunday where the officer's vehicle was found abandoned. 

“His colleagues found him in the Marikana Informal Settlement, as he had tried to flee his attackers, but he succumbed to his injuries in hospital. LEAP officers initially arrested one male suspect.” 

Following the first arrest, the Safety and Security Information Systems Management (SSIMS) unit along with the SAPS Organised Crime Unit, LEAP and the Khayelitsha Tactical Response Unit launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects. 

“The team received a tip-off which led them to the Covid Informal Settlement where they arrested two suspects,” Smith said. 

“The team worked tirelessly and arrested another suspect in Philippi East and recovered a knife believed to be the murder weapon.” 

Smith said he has spoken to the Pakade family who are grieving the loss of a young man who dedicated his life to fighting crime and improving the lives of his fellow Capetonians. 

Social media posts which circulated several months ago saw him being lauded for assisting victims of a robbery. 

“We extend our thanks to every officer who assisted with the arrests and hope this brings the Pakade family some comfort during this difficult time. 

“We also call on the courts to oppose the release of these suspects on bail as the investigation continues," Smith said. 

Cape Times