Community Safety and Security Liaison
Media Statement
Mbombela – Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie, has applauded Police in the province for a breakthrough in the Marite murder case under Calcutta Policing Precinct.
Two suspects, both aged 28, were apprehended on Friday, 29 May 2026 in connection with the murder of three people in Marite on 16 May 2026. The suspects are expected to appear at the Mkhuhlu Magistrate's Court tomorrow, Monday 01 June 2026.
According to reports, the suspects were tracked and arrested in Marite following an intelligence-driven operation by Detectives from Calcutta and Acornhoek Police Stations. One suspect was found in possession of an unlicenced firearm believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.
“We applaud the work done by Police so far and as we promised to deal decisively with crime in Calcutta area, the arrest of the two is a sign that we are moving towards the right direction. According to our plan, we still expect more of such arrests. We hope that ballistic results of the firearm recovered will perhaps assist in resolving other murder cases in the area. We anticipate that anyone else involved in recent incidents in Calcutta policing precinct or anywhere else in the province to face the full consequences of their actions. Our communities deserve to live in peace, ” MEC Macie stated.
“While we condemn these acts of violence in the strongest possible terms, we commend the efforts of the team. We must remain highly focused and bring all perpetrators to book. Their efforts will inspire communities to work with Police in preventing and solving crime, ” he said.
MEC Macie has urged Police to enhance visibility and patrols in the Calcutta policing precinct, especially on weekends at night.
He also appealed to anyone with information that can assist investigations of other murder incidents that have occurred in the area to come forward. Contact Calcutta SAPS or Crime Stop anonymously on 08600 10111. All information will be treated confidentially.
The MEC conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims.
ENDS..
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison
2026