DURBAN Regional Court sentenced and convicted Xolani Ngcongo, (37), to 15 years imprisonment for attempted murder and six months for possession of an unlicensed firearm, which will run concurrently.
According to Const Zanele Khomo from Durban Central SAPS, on 25 April 2017 at about 10.30am, a woman was hijacked by Ngcongo and a group of other suspects. Police located the vehicle in Hans Dettman Highway and gave chase. The men fired shots at the police, who returned fire. The driver lost control of the suspect’s vehicle which overturned.
“One suspect was found in possession of a firearm and one was found in possession of stolen property. Both suspects sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital under police guard. A case of hijacking was opened at Umbilo and the investigation was taken over by the Trio Task Team. One suspect passed away in hospital due to his injuries and was identified as Lucky Mthembu of KwaMashu. The second suspect was discharged from hospital and made his first court appearance on 4 July 2017 where his bail was opposed,” said Khomo.
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She said several court appearances followed until 21 January 2019 where he was sentenced and convicted. Durban Central Trio task team Detective W/O B Cotton lead the investigation.
“This will set an example to suspects who are targeting motorists and hijacking their vehicles,” said Khomo. She said Durban Central police also appealed to the community, especially students, who walk in the Central Business District and surroundings to be alert and vigilant while crossing at traffic lights.
“They must keep their cellphones in their bags and not use them while walking, as this attracts criminals,” she said.
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