Captain Laurence Makgotloe granted R15,000 bail in murder evidence tampering case

Captain Itumeleng Laurence Makgotoe (54) was released on strict conditions. He may not access his workplace building, must notify the investigating officer before visiting any police station, may not interfere with witnesses or investigations, and must surrender his passport to the investigating officer within five days.

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The Pretoria Magistrate's Court has granted a SAPS captain attached to the Forensic Science Laboratory R15,000 bail after appearing on charges of being an accessory after the fact to murder and possession of ammunition.

Captain Laurence Makgotloe (54) was released on strict conditions. He may not access his workplace building, must notify the investigating officer before visiting any police station, may not interfere with witnesses or investigations, and must surrender his passport to the investigating officer within five days.

According to the State, the case stems from the fatal shooting of a man outside Q-Tech Engineering Company in Vereeniging on 17 April 2024. The deceased was seated in his vehicle outside his workplace when occupants of another vehicle allegedly opened fire before fleeing the scene.

Police launched an investigation and subsequently arrested two suspects who were allegedly found in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The firearm and ammunition allegedly used in the murder were submitted to Makgotoe on 9 May 2024 for ballistic examination.

It is alleged that after conducting the examination, Makgotoe submitted inaccurate reports to his superiors, later retrieved the reports and failed to return them. The State further alleges that he removed the firearm and ammunition to prevent further examination and never returned the items.

Makgotoe testified before the Madlanga Commission in February 2026 regarding the murder of Swart. Following further investigations, he was arrested at his residence on 24 May 2026.

The State opposed bail, arguing that Makgotoe could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations, and potentially conceal evidence because he is a police official.

However, the magistrate ruled that it was in the interests of justice for him to be released on bail.

The case was postponed to 20 August 2026 for further investigation.

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