Eastern Cape Correctional Services Warden gunned down outside his Tavern in Katlehong

A Correctional Services officer was shot and killed on Sunday night, 20 July 2025, at Katlehong locality in Tlokoeng, Eastern Cape.

The deceased, identified as Katleho Mabitle, was employed as a warden at the Tlokoeng Correctional Centre and also operated a tavern business in the area. According to police reports, Mabitle had just finished closing his business, known as Kitchen Tavern, when an unknown assailant approached and shot him in the head. He died instantly at the scene.

SAPS in Tlokoeng confirmed that a case of murder has been opened and is currently under investigation. Upon arrival at the scene, police found Mabitle’s body lying next to his Ford Figo vehicle. He was still in full Correctional Services uniform and was reportedly in the process of collecting money from the tavern when he was attacked. The money was found in his possession.

“The deceased had sustained a single gunshot wound to the back of the head. The investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident is still ongoing,” said police.

No arrests have been made at this stage.