Wearing or impersonating a SAPS uniform, badge, or anything that materially resembles official police clothing without authorisation is a criminal offence under South African law. Only serving members employed under the Police Act, or people with written permission from the National or Provincial Commissioner, may do so.
Online reaction has been strongly critical, with many questioning how he obtained the uniform and linking it to broader frustrations about immigration and respect for state institutions. Some posts note he has a history of public controversy.
Warrant Officer Ennice (also spelled Eunice) Nortman
Warrant Officer Ennice Nortman, 53, attached to North West Provincial Crime Intelligence (Ngaka Modiri Molema District), was on duty on the afternoon of Monday 19 October 2026 when she was struck by a white BMW SUV at Lichtenburg Mall on Dr Nelson Mandela Drive.
CCTV footage (widely shared, though police have asked the public not to circulate it) appears to show her approaching a pedestrian crossing, signalling to the driver, and then being hit and driven over. She was taken to hospital with serious injuries and died later that evening.
The driver, 23-year-old Akilesh Gupta (described in reports as a foreign national), was arrested. He appeared in the Lichtenburg Magistrates’ Court on 21 October and was remanded in custody. He faces a murder charge plus alleged immigration-law contraventions. His next court appearance is set for 27 October 2026.
Her husband (also a warrant officer) and family have spoken publicly about the loss. North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams and others have expressed condolences. The case has intensified public discussion about illegal immigration, road safety, and attacks on or risks faced by police officers.
The two stories landing close together has amplified online calls for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and greater respect for the police. Both matters remain under active investigation or court process; the allegations against the individuals involved have not yet been tested or finalised in court.
