According to police, Onu was allegedly pursued by the officers while they were conducting traffic duties.

Authorities confirmed that the deceased was reportedly in South Africa legally at the time of his death.

Four National Traffic Police officers facing a murder charge following the death of a Nigerian national have been refused bail by the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court.

The accused appeared in court on Thursday in connection with the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Osinakachukwu Macus Onu, which occurred during the early hours of Wednesday morning on the N12 in Klerksdorp.

North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the officers were arrested after Onu was shot during a traffic operation. His vehicle was later discovered stationary in the middle of the road on the opposite side of the highway.

Murder charge follows deadly traffic operation on N12

The four accused officers have been named as Inspector Rudolph Foromo, 29; Inspector Smanga Dladla, 31; Inspector Colani Senzo Dlamini, 34; and Inspector Vusumuzi Justice Simelane, 36. They are facing a charge of murder linked to the incident.

When police were alerted to the incident and arrived at the scene, the traffic officers involved had already departed. Initial investigations led Klerksdorp detectives to another location in the city, where the suspects were traced and arrested.

Firearms seized as investigation continues

The court denied all four officers bail. They are expected to return to the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 19 December 2025.

Police confirmed that the officers’ official firearms have been confiscated and will undergo forensic ballistic testing as part of the ongoing investigation. In addition to murder, the officers are also facing a charge of defeating the ends of justice.

North West acting provincial commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo welcomed the arrests and praised Klerksdorp detectives for their swift response. He also expressed appreciation to members of the public who provided information that assisted police in tracing the suspects.

Authorities have reiterated that investigations into the full circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under way.