The Hawks’ National Head, Lieutenant General (Dr/Adv) Lebeya has directed a multi-disciplinary team to investigate the murder of Lieutenant Colonel Frans Mathipa in a bid to apprehend those responsible for the murder. He further passed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased member.

Last night, 6 August 2023, Lieutenant Colonel Mathipa who is attached to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in Gauteng was on duty conducting an investigation when he was shot and killed whilst driving on the N1 highway near the Hammanskraal Toll plaza. He sustained gunshot wounds to the head and lost control of the vehicle which rolled and landed on the ditch. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A case of murder has been opened at Hammanskraaal police station which will be investigated by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team.

Lieutenant General (DR/ADV) SG Lebeya (SOEG) condemned the senseless killing of one of the dedicated police officer and said “Lt Col Mathipa was a devoted investigator who specialised on the Crimes Against The State cases. Those who attack police officers are a threat to the country and we are confident that the investigation team will do diligent work in apprehending those responsible,” stated Gen Lebeya.