The three suspects accused of murdering a City of Cape Town LEAP officer during an attempted hijacking in Philippi East earlier this month have abandoned their bail applications.
The suspects made their second court appearance in the Athlone Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
It is believed that the trio were part of a group of suspects who hijacked the 26 year old officer, Yonke Pakade, on 12 October 2025.
According to the City’s Safety and Security Directrate, the officer, who was off duty at the time, was using his private vehicle during the time of the incident. The suspects alleged stabbed and stoned officer Pakade before he managed to flee the scene.
City law enforcement officers later found his vehicle abandoned on Sheffield Road. The officer was found in the Marikana Informal Settlement which stabe wounds to his body.
He was transported to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
Law Enforcement officers initially arrested one suspect and later arrested two more in collaboration with the police.
During court proceedings on Tuesday, it was heard that the suspects also face charges of rape in a seperate case.
The murder case has been postponed to the 27th of January 2026.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says the directorate has honoured Pakade at a memorial hosted by his colleagues a few days ago.
@jpsmith4safety On Friday the Safety and Security Directorate hosted a memorial for slain LEAP officer Yonke Pakade. RIP young man, we will miss you. #JusticeForYonke ♬ original sound – Song Lyrics
“Yonke was more than just an officer – he was a passionate advocate for safety and security, with a bright future ahead of him. He was a brave, committed individual who lived up to his obligation as a protector, even when he was off duty.” added Smith
In a statement, Smith says Pakade’s life was taken in the most horrific way, adding that the City will always remember his selflessness, his dedication, and his bravery.
READ MORE: LEAP officer dies after being hijacked and attacked in Philippi
