16-Hour Pretoria Hostage Tragedy Linked to Brother’s Affair With Police Officer’s Girlfriend and Child’s Paternity
New information has emerged about the 16-hour hostage situation in Mamelodi, Pretoria, that ended in tragedy earlier this week.
Police constable Thapelo Mashego (32), who held his mother and nephew hostage, is believed to have acted after discovering a devastating family secret involving the paternity of his child.
Also Read: 16-Hour Pretoria Hostage Standoff Ends in Tragedy as Police Officer Kills Nephew, Himself
Hostage Situation Turns Deadly
The standoff began on Tuesday morning when Mashego locked himself inside the family home with his 69-year-old mother and 18-year-old nephew.
Despite lengthy negotiations, he only released his mother late that night. Moments later, he shot and killed his nephew before turning the gun on himself.
Uncle Reveals Family Secret
According to EWN, Mashego’s uncle, Steve Mphela, said the incident may have been triggered by revelations of betrayal within the family.
“I don’t know if it was a secret or something, but he said he found out that the child he has with his girlfriend is not his – but is his brother’s,” Mphela explained.
According to Mphela, Mashego also accused his mother of knowing about the affair between his girlfriend and brother, but keeping the matter hidden from him.
Police Commissioner Urges Support Services
In the wake of the tragedy, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has appealed to officers to make use of the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness services.
He stressed the importance of seeking support when facing personal and emotional challenges.