Four men sentenced to life for killing law enforcement officers in Western Cape
The Western Cape High Court has sentenced four men to two life terms each for the brutal and premeditated murder of two law enforcement officers in Samora Machel in 2019.
The officers were gunned down while on duty at Sweethome Farm, Vlei squatter camp, on September 4, 2019.
According to police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana, they were shot at around 1pm by four suspects who also robbed them of their service firearms before fleeing the scene.
“The injured officers were transported to a medical facility for treatment, where they both succumbed to their injuries,” said Manyana.
Following an intensive investigation led by the Provincial Organised Task Team, three suspects, Ashwin Kennedy, 22, Ndumiso Lutshetu, 18, and Bongani Mvamveki, 36, were arrested.
A fourth suspect, Siyabonga Witbooi, 35, was later apprehended. During the arrests, police recovered the stolen firearms and ammunition used in the attack.
The suspects were denied bail and remained in custody throughout the trial.
On Wednesday, the Western Cape High Court found all four guilty on two counts of murder.
“The four suspects were found guilty of two counts of murder and were sentenced to two life sentences each and fifteen years imprisonment each for the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition,” said Manyana.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, welcomed the sentencing and praised the tireless efforts of the investigative team.
“This verdict serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice and underscores our commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our communities,” he said.
IOL News