Free State police have successfully arrested suspects connected to a fatal business robbery and murder that took place in the early hours of Saturday morning in Phomolong, Deneysville.
Details of the Crime
At approximately 01:00 on 28 June 2025, authorities responded to a crime scene at a local business premises in Phomolong. Upon arrival, officers found that the back door of a bottle store had been forcibly opened. Inside, five unidentified African males had fatally shot the shop owner, 38-year-old Akmal Masire, a Pakistani national.
Preliminary reports indicate that the suspects entered the shop and bottle store, shot Masire, and stole an undisclosed amount of money before fleeing.
Police Manhunt and Arrests
An immediate manhunt was launched, leading members of the Highway Patrol to spot the suspects’ vehicle on Vereeniging Road. When police attempted to intercept the car, the suspects opened fire, prompting officers to return fire.
One suspect, aged 38, was wounded and later died in the hospital. A second suspect, the 20-year-old driver of the getaway vehicle, was arrested at the scene. A third suspect, aged 27, was later traced and apprehended, sustaining minor injuries during his arrest.
Authorities are still searching for the remaining two suspects.
Recovered Items
Police seized stolen property, including alcohol, money, and clothing. The vehicle used in the crime, as well as a revolver, were also confiscated.
Updates will be provided as more details emerge.
