The SAPS is determined to intensify the fight against corruption and is even tougher within its own ranks. This was confirmed by a nine year prison sentence handed down to the 43 year old former Constable Mkhanyiseli Mashiyi of SAPS Cambridge, who was found guilty of fraud, theft and defeating the ends of Justice by the East London Regional Court.
Mashiyi was notorious for preying on individuals he came across in compromising positions during his night shifts. He would then demand money and possessions from his victims in order for him not to arrest them, of which they would oblige for fear of arrest and embarrassment. The long arm of the law caught up with him in December 2012.
The investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer Raoul Petzer said that the case took such a long time because of the defence. He also added that they had to convince one of the witnesses who was reluctant to testify, to travel from Gauteng to East London and testify.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga said that this sentence will serve as a deterrent to the members of the service not to associate themselves with criminality, the message she preaches everyday.
“Mashiyi tainted the reputation of the SAPS as his actions flew in the face of what the SAPS stood for. Even though it is not easy to work on an arrest of a fellow ex-colleague but protecting the community holds the higher premium. Police are paid to look out for the community not to prey on its vulnerability,” she added.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
