Johannesburg – The high court in Johannesburg has sentenced convicted murderers 31-year-old Njiki Hlulani Mabuza and 29-year-old Savenore Sihle Ntuli to three life terms each for killing two police officers and a Community Policing Forum (CPF) member.
The pair murdered police officers Phillip Kgotso Malahlela and Vusimusi Innocent Batsha on 21 October 2022 in Boksburg.
The accused also killed a CPF member, Tommy Masuku.
In addition to the life sentences, both accused were sentenced to a further 59 years in prison for other offences including attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of unlicensed firearms, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Narrating how the accused were brought to book, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said: “Mabuza was arrested in Boksburg for an unlicensed firearm, prompting a tip-off to Warrant Officer Jonathan Phume”.
Mjonondwane added: “The second accused was arrested in Makwakwa after firing at a taxi driver and found with a stolen police firearm.”
Investigations revealed that the accused were involved in multiple crimes, including the murder of a CPF member in July 2022, who was ambushed and shot in an informal settlement for working with the police.
“Four months later, after the first murder, the accused ambushed and killed two police officers retrieving a dead body, shooting them, and stealing their firearms,” said Mjonondwane.
“During the attack, the deceased’s girlfriend was also shot twice, suffering permanent abdominal damage.
“One officer was killed in the bathroom, while the other was shot outside.”
During sentencing, Senior State Advocate Zarina Pack emphasised that the murders of the two police officers were premeditated and targeted.
The court concurred, taking into account the severity of the crimes and their impact on the victims and their families, highlighting the need for justice and accountability.
“The NPA welcomes the court’s decision to impose multiple life sentences on those convicted of the brutal murders of police officers,” said Mjonondwane.
“The killing of law enforcement officers is not only a heinous crime but also a direct assault on the rule of law, public safety, and the fabric of our democracy.
“Such acts threaten the security of all South Africans and undermine efforts to maintain law and order.”
Mjonondwane said the NPA remains resolute in its mandate to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure that justice is served, especially in cases where those tasked with protecting our communities become targets themselves.
“Through diligent prosecution and unwavering commitment, the NPA continues to affirm that attacks on the state and its institutions will be met with the full might of the law,” Mjonondwane said.
