Tsolo, Eastern Cape – A 33-year-old man was fatally shot by police in Mbutho, Tsolo, while officers were responding to an abduction complaint on Thursday, 16 January, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed.
According to SAPS, the suspect allegedly lured a 24-year-old woman after meeting her on social media, abducted her and raped her.
“A 33-year-old suspect was fatally shot by police in Mbutho, Tsolo, while responding to an abduction complaint,” SAPS said in a statement.
“The suspect had lured and raped a 24-year-old woman after meeting her via social media. He later charged at police with a knife.”
Police have now launched an investigation into possible links between the deceased suspect and three women aged between 25 and 29 who were previously reported missing and later found dead.
#sapsEC A 33-year-old suspect was fatally shot by police in Mbutho, Tsolo, while responding to an abduction complaint on 16/01. The suspect had lured and raped a 24-year-old woman after meeting her via social media. He later charged at police with a knife.
Police are… pic.twitter.com/Ef3ayphQ4I
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) January 17, 2026
“Police are investigating possible links between the suspect and three women aged between 25–29, previously reported missing and found dead,” SAPS said.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has taken over the case, as required when police action results in a fatality.
Meanwhile, the OR Tambo District Commissioner issued a warning to the public about online safety.
“The OR Tambo District Commissioner warns the public to be cautious when using social media,” SAPS said.
Investigations into the incident and the suspected links to the missing women are ongoing.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
