Three South African Police Service constables were killed in a shooting incident in Kariega, Eastern Cape, in the early hours of May 7, 2026, following what authorities described as a late-night lovers’ quarrel. The incident occurred at a residence on Rudman Street, where a male constable allegedly forced entry while his former girlfriend, also a serving constable, was present with another male colleague.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that at approximately 00:45, officers responded to reports of shots fired at the address. Upon arrival, they discovered the three constables suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Two were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third succumbed to injuries after being transported to Cuyler Hospital.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the male constable, identified as the ex-boyfriend of the female constable, entered the property and the confrontation escalated into a fatal exchange of gunfire. A state-issued firearm was recovered at the scene along with 10 live rounds. Ballistic analysis will be conducted as part of the ongoing probe.
Eastern Cape police commissioner Lt-Gen Vuyisile Ncata expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as a tragic and devastating blow to the SAPS family. “Three young officers have lost their lives under heartbreaking circumstances,” he stated. The department is providing trauma debriefing and counselling to affected members and will support the families of the deceased.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified and will conduct a parallel investigation in line with the IPID Act, given that the deaths involve police members and a state firearm. The SAPS has also opened an internal disciplinary docket. Identities of the officers will be released once next-of-kin notifications are completed.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the policing community in the province, highlighting the personal risks and emotional strains faced by law enforcement officers even outside of operational duties. No further details were released at this stage to preserve the integrity of the investigations.
