The provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (DPCI), Major General Mboiki Ngwenya, has welcomed the admission of guilt by Siphesihle Tatsi (23), one of the five suspects who allegedly killed five on-duty police officers in Ngcobo on February 21, 2018.
Ngwenya believes that the positive action by Tatsi will lead to conviction and sentencing of his co-accused as well.
Phumzile Mhlatywa (50), Andani Monco (35), Kwanele Ndlwana (27) and Siphosomzi Tshefu, age unknown, chose to follow the normal trial route while their co-accused decided to plead guilty for charges of five murders, attempted murders, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition as well as malicious damage to property.
Tatsi pleaded guilty on Tuesday, July 18.
“The suspects were worshipers at Mancoba Seven Angels Church that was based at Nyanga Location in Ngcobo. It is further revealed that the suspects went further and robbed members at Ngcobo police station where they snatched two R5 rifles, two shotguns and a 9mm pistol,” said Mgolodela.
According to her, on February 23, 2018, the task team of investigators led by the Mthatha-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation of Hawks received an information about those who killed and robbed the police station.
“The team sprang into an action to Mancoba church premises. On arrival the suspects shot at the police and five were apprehended on the scene.
“The suspects made their several court appearances at the Mthatha High court and were never granted bail and are still remanded in custody,” Mgolodela added.
The case against Tatsi will be finalised tomorrow, July 25, when his sentence will be meted out.
The case against his co-accused is in court and will be finalised in September.
