30/05/2026
OFF-DUTY SERGEANT KILLED A MAN, BURNED HIS BODY INSIDE VEHICLE
Accused: Sergeant Zamikhaya Mqolo, 38 years old, attached to the Mthatha National Intervention Unit (NIU) of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Victim: Bude Phuka, 37 years old.
On the evening of 2 May 2026, Phuka was at a local liquor establishment (tavern/shebeen) with his girlfriend.
Sergeant Mqolo who was off duty at the time arrived. The woman was Mqolo’s former partner. An argument broke out between Mqolo and Phuka. Mqolo allegedly assaulted Phuka.
The girlfriend tried to intervene but was reportedly overpowered. Phuka then left the establishment in his vehicle.
Mqolo allegedly followed/chased him in another car. The next day (3 May 2026), Phuka’s charred body was discovered inside his burnt-out vehicle on the R56 outside Indwe. Investigators recovered R5 cartridges at the scene, suggesting he was shot before the vehicle was set alight.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) took over the case, as it involves a police officer.
IPID collected DNA samples from Phuka’s family to positively identify the badly burnt remains. The family was kept informed and reportedly appreciated the speed of the DNA process.
Sergeant Mqolo appeared in court on 27 May 2026. He was charged in connection with the murder and the burning of the body.
He was granted R3,000 bail. The case was postponed to 29 July 2026 for further investigation. Mqolo is out on bail.
