By Thokozani Mazibuko
It has been two years since His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) officer, Phakamani Gravel Magagula, vanished mysteriously along with a service rifle.
The Royal Eswatini Police (REPS) have yet to apprehend the fugitive.
Magagula (36), a resident of Dvokolwako, a town located within the Manzini Region reportedly went missing in the past two years.
The officer’s disappearance, along with the theft of a service rifle, sent shockwaves throughout the law enforcement community and raised concerns about security breaches.
Since the incident, the Royal Eswatini Police Service has been conducting extensive investigations and working relentlessly to locate and apprehend the missing officer.
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However, their efforts have thus far been in vain, leaving them puzzled about Magagula’s whereabouts and intentions.
Authorities have issued a public notice on the official Facebook page of the Royal Eswatini Police Service, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any information that might aid in the capture of Magagula.
The post described the missing officer, providing identifying details and emphasizing the potential danger he poses while armed.
“Phakamani Gravel Magagula, age 36, is wanted for questioning in connection with the disappearance of a service rifle.
We urge the public to cooperate with the police and contact us immediately if they have any information regarding his current whereabouts,” the notice read.
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The prolonged absence of Phakamani Gravel Magagula has left both law enforcement agencies and the community on edge.
Concerns have been raised about the potential dangers posed by an armed officer allegedly at large for two years.
Questions have emerged regarding the officer’s motivations, mental state, and whether there may have been extenuating circumstances leading to his disappearance.
The case has also highlighted the need for enhanced security measures within correctional services and stricter protocols regarding the handling and inventory of firearms.
Authorities are currently reviewing existing procedures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Despite the challenges faced in this investigation, the Royal Eswatini Police Service remains committed to locating and apprehending Phakamani Gravel Magagula.
They have encouraged citizens to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and provide any relevant information that could aid in his capture.
Meanwhile, recently there has been a breakthrough as one of the Absent Without Official Leave HMCS officers, Wandile Gina has since been arrested by the REPS, most recently.
