A police officer stationed at the Cullinan Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit has been sentenced to 12 years’ direct imprisonment for stock theft valued at R80 000.
The Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates’ Court convicted Rhulani Herbert Maringa (44) and also declared him unfit to possess a firearm following his involvement in the theft of cattle from Zonderwater Correctional Services.
On 17 April 2019, two individuals stole cattle from the correctional facility in Cullinan at Maringa’s instruction. The two accused have since turned state witnesses.
The matter was uncovered after police received a tip-off from a farmer to whom the stolen cattle had been sold. When the two individuals returned to the farm to collect payment, they were arrested.
Following their arrest, the two accused cooperated with police and revealed that Maringa had been involved in planning the offence and had escorted them to Gaudveld Farm, where there is an abattoir and butchery.
During the trial, Maringa pleaded not guilty and denied involvement. However, Regional Court Prosecutor Advocate Patsy Jacobs presented evidence that proved the state’s case beyond reasonable doubt.
In mitigation of sentence, Maringa’s legal representative requested leniency on the basis that no financial loss was ultimately suffered, as the cattle were recovered and returned to the Department of Correctional Services.
Advocate Jacobs opposed this argument, stating that Maringa, as a police officer assigned to a stock theft unit, had a heightened duty to prevent such crimes and had instead abused his position. She urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence.
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In handing down the sentence, the Regional Court magistrate agreed with the state, noting that police officers are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and that the courts have a responsibility to protect the property rights of citizens.
The National Prosecuting Authority welcomed the sentence and commended the police for their prompt and effective response to the highly organised and premeditated offence involving a police official.
