A 34-year-old traffic officer was on Thursday arrested in connection with the murder of his girlfriend whose body was dumped under a bridge at Chuenespoort in Lebowakgomo, Limpopo.

Police responded to the scene after the body of an unknown woman was discovered under the bridge along the R37 road. The deceased’s age was estimated to be between 30 and 35 and had suffered a gunshot wound on the abdomen.

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A case of murder was opened and specialised detectives from the Provincial Office were assigned to probe the occurrences.

The team, comprising detectives from murder and robbery and the Tracking Team worked around the clock on the case. Through meticulous investigation, the suspect was positively linked to the murder.

The suspect, attached to the Provincial Traffic in Polokwane was arrested at his homestead in Penina Park in the afternoon. He was found in possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Police also recovered some of the exhibits at the crime scene.

The circumstance surrounding the incident is still being investigated. The deceased’s identity will be released after the next of kin have been notified.

LIMPOPO TRAFFIC OFFICER ARRESTED FOR MURDER

Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has commended the investigation team for the major breakthrough.

“Gender-based violence and femicides remain a top priority for the SAPS. Incidents like these are very disturbing and shameful as they also compromise the integrity of law enforcement agencies. We shall also make sure that this traffic officer rot in prison for such a brutal and premeditated murder,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

The suspect will appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court in due course. He also faces charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice and unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.