A Devastating Loss: Constable Unathi Makananda’s Tragic Passing

1 min read
police officer tragic loss

The Cape Town community is mourning the loss of a dedicated police officer, Constable Unathi Makananda, who was stationed at Kleinvlei. Makananda was tragically shot and injured during a house robbery in Mfuleni on June 26th, a senseless act that ultimately led to his untimely demise.

The Tragic Incident

Makananda was at his home with his girlfriend and friends when four armed men barged into the house, claiming to be searching for a place to purchase beers. The robbers demanded Makananda’s firearm, but he responded that he did not have one. Despite this, the assailants shot him in the hip, causing severe complications. Makananda slipped into a coma due to brain swelling while in the hospital, and nothing could be done to save his life.

Newsletter

Stay Informed • Cape Town

Get breaking news, events, and local stories delivered to your inbox daily. All the news that matters in under 5 minutes.

Join 10,000+ readers
No spam, unsubscribe anytime

The Robbery and Investigation

The robbers took cash, cellphones, and a flatscreen television from the victims. They even attempted to steal the officer’s vehicle, but their lack of operational skills left it behind as they fled the scene. The Mfuleni SAPS spokesperson, November Filander, urged the community to be vigilant and cooperate with the ongoing investigation, asking anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Simpiwe Thaubeni, Crime Stoppers, or the Mfuleni SAPS.

The Impact of Makananda’s Loss

Makananda’s death has sent shockwaves through the police force, with colleagues expressing devastation over the loss. The community has also shown an outpouring of grief and support, showcasing the impact Makananda had on those around him, both professionally and personally.

Honoring Makananda’s Memory

The death of Constable Makananda serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of police officers who risk their lives for the safety of the community. As we grieve the loss of this brave officer, his service and dedication to protecting others shall not be forgotten.

In the face of tragedy, the collective strength and unity of the Cape Town community must persevere, striving for justice and a safer tomorrow. We must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice, honor the memory of Constable Unathi Makananda, and the countless other brave individuals who have dedicated their lives to the service and protection of others.

A Guiding Light

Constable Unathi Makananda’s enduring spirit serves as a guiding light for us all, as we strive to create a safer, more harmonious world for future generations. Let us not forget the sacrifices made by those who stand on the front lines, risking everything for the greater good.

Sizwe Dlamini is a Cape Town-based journalist who chronicles the city’s evolving food scene, from boeka picnics in the Bo-Kaap to seafood braais in Khayelitsha. Raised on the slopes of Table Mountain, he still starts every morning with a walk to the kramat in Constantia before heading out to discover whose grandmother is dishing up the best smoorsnoek that day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

The Rugby Championship Showdown: Springboks vs All Blacks

Next Story

The Art of Socializing Adult Dogs: Patience, Perseverance, and Positivity

Latest from Blog

A Teenager in a White Coat: How One Student Shattered South Africa’s Medical Age Record

{“summary”: “Imagine a whiz kid, David Obagbuwa, who started high school at 11 and became a doctor at just 21! He shattered South Africa’s medical age record, proving that a sharp mind and hard work can achieve amazing things. From classrooms in KwaZuluNatal to intense medical studies, David tackled every challenge. Even during lockdown, he quickly mastered his courses. Now, he’s ready to help people, showing that big dreams can come true, no matter how young you are.”}

Martian Dust, Carbon ankles & a R4-million Promise: Inside the 2026 Cape Epic’s Mobility Rebellion

Get ready for the 2026 Cape Epic, but this isn’t just any bike race! Three special teams, using amazing robotic legs and carbon ankles, will tackle the tough trails. They’re racing to raise R4 million to buy 200 new prosthetic limbs, 150 wheelchairs, and 50 sports blades for people in South Africa who need them. Every pedal stroke helps someone gain freedom and move again, showing that movement is for everyone, not just a few. This epic journey turns sweat into hope, changing lives one kilometer at a time.

Cape Town’s Shadow State: How Extortion Became the New Township Taxman

Cape Town has a big problem: bad guys are shaking down businesses and projects for money. They act like “taxmen” in townships, making building costs shoot up and forcing small shops to close. These criminals cause fear, stop important work, and even kill people who get in their way. It’s like a shadow government taking over, making life hard for everyone and costing the city tons of money. People are scared, and it’s unclear how this dangerous situation will ever truly end.

The Woman Who Taught Cape Town to Breathe Under Fire

Arlene Wehr taught Cape Town how to fight fires like a boss! She was one of the first women firefighters and totally changed the game. Arlene created cool new ways to find water, like “Operation Liquid Grid,” and made sure everyone had a chance to become a firefighter, even women. Because of her, Cape Town is safer, and the fire department is much more welcoming to all.

Morea House: Where the Atlantic Meets Art, Granite and Ghost-Nets

Morea House is Cape Town’s first fancy Marriott hotel, born from an old 1960s building. It shines with blushpink walls and art made from old fishing nets, making it feel truly special. This hotel is all about local beauty, from its design to its food, and even how it saves the planet. Imagine rooftop pools, unique spa experiences, and rooms where you wake up to amazing views. It’s a place where every detail tells a story of the ocean and the land, making your stay unforgettable.