The South African Police Service (SAPS) remains resolute in the prevention, combatting and investigation of serious and violent crimes in the province. The Provincial Commissioner of police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has commended detectives in the province for securing the recent lengthy sentences in court.
Over the past two weeks, detectives from various stations and provincial units have collectively secured 17 life imprisonment terms with over 1100 years in prison for 51 accused in 40 separate cases.
The charges on these cases include, among others; murder, rape, tampering with essential infrastructure; sexual assault, assault to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), attempted murder and trio crimes (house and business robberies and car hijackings).
On Tuesday, 30 August 2022 the Germiston Magistrates’ Court sentenced seven accused, aged between 33 and 40 years old, collectively to two life imprisonment terms and an additional 450 years. The accused stood trial and were found guilty on charges that include murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. All the sentences are ordered to run concurrently.
On Saturday, 1 June 2019 Xolani Beme, Bhekizenzo Buthelezi, Khululekane Buthelezi, Ntokozo Khumalo, Kenneth Mabanga, Tladi Monaheng and Pule Tsotetsi robbed a local business in Rondebult. Two persons were murdered before the accused fled the scene with the baited goods.
The case was assigned to Warrant Officer Isaac Langa, a detective based at SAPS Elsburg Detective Service. Langa immediately commenced with his investigation which led him to arrest the suspects within a couple of weeks after the incident took place. Through the application of forensic techniques and meticulousness of Langa a solid case was presented against the accused in court.
In another case, the Pretoria North Magistrates’ Court sentenced 34-year-old Guly Sithole to 15 years imprisonment for tampering with essential infrastructure.
“Our detectives’ unwavering efforts in court are an indication of our efforts in addressing the scourge of serious and violent crimes in the province. Quality investigation and commitment by our members will ultimately restore the communities’ faith in the South African Police Service,” said Lt Gen Mawela.
