Five criminals arrested in February 2021 for truck hijacking, murder, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in Kleinskool were finally sentenced in the Gqeberha Magistrate Court on Monday, June 26.
According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, on February 9, 2021 at about 12:30 a detective officer from the then NMB Detective Trio task team was in Bethelsdorp when he witnessed in his rear-view mirror a truck being hijacked and that the driver of the truck was forced out the vehicle and two suspects got in.
She said at the same time, a bystander who was a worker at a scrap metal business was fatally shot.
“The detective officer immediately turned his vehicle around and chased after the truck who had also made a U-turn,” said Naidu.
“The truck was being followed by a Suzuki vehicle with three occupants inside and shots were fired at the pursuing police vehicle.”
She further said Gqeberha K9 unit, SAPS Kwazakele Vispol Task Team members, Flying Squad and Public Order Policing provided backup.
“The hijacked truck and the suspects’ vehicle were blocked off and the five suspects arrested and two fire arms were also recovered,” said Naidu.
Naidu said the accused remained in custody until the finalisation of the case.
Finally on June 26, Luzuko Mdwayi (32); Cawe Mboneli Humphrey (41) and Bari Vuyisa (age unknown) were found guilty of aggravated robbery and kidnapping.
“They will serve a total of 15 years in prison,” Naidu added.
In addition, accused Zukisani Potelwa (46) was sentenced to an effective 23 years for aggravated robbery, possession of firearm and ammunition and kidnapping while Mawethu Singqoto (32) was sentenced to a total of 20 years for aggravated robbery and kidnapping.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General, Vuyisile Ncata said, “This marks a victory for justice and the efforts of our members who worked to ensure that these perpetrators account for their heinous actions.”
“The crimes committed by the accused were not only a threat to public safety but also challenge to the fabric of our communities. Through investigations and the support of our partners in the criminal justice system, these criminals will be behind bars for a long time.”
