COP KILLERS ROT IN JAIL: 4 LIFE TERMS PLUS 120 YEARS!

DURBAN – The long arm of the law has finally caught up with a dangerous trio who terrorised the lower Umfolozi area.

The Durban High Court has handed down a heavy sentence to Njabulo Nqeka Mazibuko (33), Xolani Sandile Mlotshwa (32) and Siphelele Funokwakhe Gwala (27). The men were sentenced to four terms of life imprisonment and an additional 120 years behind bars for a bloody spree of robbery and murder.

A DEADLY PLAN

The court heard how the men formed a syndicate with a clear and evil purpose before their reign of terror began between August and December 2021. Realising they needed firepower to commit crimes, they made a shocking decision to target those sworn to protect us.

They specifically hunted down law enforcement officers and security guards to rob them of their official firearms.

BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS

During their crime spree, the gang left a trail of heartbreak, killing four men. Their victims included Traffic Officers Moses Sizwe Sithole and Mxolisi Quett Lamula, security guard Lucky Ntimbane, and Police Officer Nkosinathi Ngcobo.

The men were eventually cornered and arrested after police received a tip-off about their whereabouts.

JUSTICE SERVED

In court, Prosecutor Alex Khanyile led strong evidence, including ballistic reports and testimony from officers who attended the grisly scenes. Emotional Victim Impact Statements from the heartbroken families of the deceased were also handed in.

The Judge showed no mercy, sentencing them to:

• Life imprisonment for each of the four counts of murder.

• 15 years for attempted murder.

• 15 years for each of the six counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

• 5 years for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

CRIME WON’T BE TOLERATED

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the sentence. They said this sends a strong message that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated.

“We acknowledge and commend the fruitful working relationship we share with our partners in law enforcement, and the role of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in this matter,” the NPA said.