The police management of the Western Cape commended investigators attached to the Provincial Organised Crime Investigations responsible for taxi violence related cases with the investigation, conviction and subsequent sentencing of 40 years imprisonment meted for an attack on a traffic officer at the Regional Court at Thembalethu, George on Friday, 9 June 2023.
On 7 August 2020 at about 09:10, three female traffic officials pulled over a vehicle on the N2 highway near the entrance to Pacaltsdorp, George after the vehicle drove recklessly.
While approaching the taxi, the driver armed with a firearm, got out of the vehicle, and fired several shots injuring one of the officials before disarming her.
The suspect fled the scene on foot and various police units as well as traffic officials commenced with a search in the area. His freedom was short-lived when the team cornered him along the N2 highway.
A shootout ensued injuring the suspect and a police official. The vigilant members arrested the suspect and also confiscated two firearms found in his possession.
The 29-year-old victim sustained several gunshot wounds during the ordeal.
A team of detectives attached to the Taxi Violence unit was assembled and commenced with the investigation. The accused, Bonginkosi Ndevu (31), was soon charged on various offences.
His bail application was successfully opposed and he remained in custody ever since.
The accused was sentenced to five years imprisonment for attempted murder on the traffic official, 15 years for robbery, five years attempted murder for the attack of police officials and a combined 15 years sentence for two counts of pointing of firearm as well as possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
He was sentenced to an effective 40 years imprisonment.
Western Cape police management lauded the investigation and prosecution teams who worked tirelessly to ensure a successful prosecution as well as a lengthy incarceration. This lengthy incarceration should serve as deterrent for those threatening the stability of the transport industry as well as safety of law enforcement officials. The safety of road users remains key to the policing approach of the Province.
