Police arrest suspect in Harrismith mother-son shooting! The Free State police have achieved a significant breakthrough by apprehending a suspect linked to the tragic August 2024 shooting of a mother and her 27-year-old son in their home near Harrismith.
The 33-year-old suspect, wanted for murder and attempted murder, was arrested on Monday in Harrismith by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Public Order Police Unit. The arrest came after community members provided vital information that connected the suspect to the murder of Neo Ntamane and the attempted murder of his mother, Ntsebeng Mokhethi-Ntamane, 52.
Details of the Crime
Free State police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring confirmed that the victims were both shot in their home in Tshiame B township, Harrismith, on 11 August 2024, by unknown assailants.
The suspects allegedly fled the scene with a stolen cellphone and the family’s Renault Kwid with a Free State registration.
The chilling series of events began when Neo and his girlfriend were driving home from Intabazwe township to Tshiame B township at approximately 9:18 p.m.
The Night of the Attack
“While driving, Neo and his girlfriend noticed a single-cab bakkie following them,” Mophiring explained.
Upon arriving at their residence, Neo got out of the car to open the gate for his girlfriend, who went inside their room to switch on the light.
“Suddenly, she noticed the same bakkie driving slowly past Neo, who was still outside near the gate in his car,” Mophiring added.
Moments later, the girlfriend heard gunshots. She turned to see Neo running for cover, but he collapsed to the ground, fatally wounded.
The horror escalated when the girlfriend ran into the main house, only to find Ntsebeng, Neo’s mother, lying on the floor, bleeding profusely from a gunshot wound to the head.
Emergency Response
Emergency responders were quickly called to the scene. Paramedics declared Neo dead on the spot, while his mother was rushed to a nearby hospital. Ntsebeng survived the attack and is recovering, but the trauma of the incident remains profound.
A case of murder and attempted murder was immediately opened, and police began their investigation.
Arrest of the Suspect
The arrest of the suspect marks a significant development in the case. Community members played a crucial role by providing police with information that led to his capture.
The suspect appeared in the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday to face charges of murder and attempted murder.
Community and Police Collaboration
Warrant Officer Mophiring expressed gratitude to the Harrismith community for their assistance in tracking down the suspect.
“This arrest would not have been possible without the valuable information shared by members of the public. It shows the power of collaboration between the police and the community,” said Mophiring.
The SAPS continues to urge anyone with additional information regarding the case or the involvement of other suspects to come forward.
Ongoing Investigation
Although the arrest marks progress, the case remains under active investigation. Police are working to determine whether other individuals were involved in the attack and are conducting further inquiries into the events leading up to the shooting.
The motive behind the crime is not yet clear, and police are exploring various possibilities, including robbery and premeditated murder.
Rebuilding Trust and Safety
The Free State police have reassured the community that they are committed to delivering justice for the victims and their families. The arrest of the suspect is seen as a step toward restoring safety and trust in the area.
“This tragic incident has deeply affected the community, and we will do everything in our power to ensure those responsible are held accountable,” Mophiring concluded.
The suspect is expected to make additional court appearances as the legal process unfolds. Meanwhile, the community of Tshiame B continues to mourn the loss of Neo Ntamane and prays for the full recovery of his mother, Ntsebeng.
