Two suspects have appeared in the Beaufort West Magistrate’s Court for the murder of a 23-year-old police constable. The accused are a 20-year-old man, Siyamthanda Mafata, and a 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named because he is a minor.
The victim, Constable Courtlin Lakay, was stationed at the Beaufort West police station but was off duty at the time of the incident.
According to police reports, the incident occurred on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at a place of entertainment on Gaba Road in Beaufort West. Responding officers found Constable Lakay’s body with a stab wound to his back. He was declared dead at the scene. The suspects allegedly fled on foot.
A murder case was opened and assigned to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime unit in George. With help from K9 and Crime Intelligence units, police followed up on information that led to the arrest of the two suspects.
The case has been postponed. The court is still looking for suitable accommodation for the juvenile suspect. Both accused have been ordered to remain in custody.