Two civilians and a cop to be sentenced for murder

A former constable and two civilians are expected to appear before the North Gauteng High Court sitting in Potchefstroom, for sentencing today.

The three were convicted last month for three counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, one count of assault, one count of kidnapping and one count of defeating the ends of justice.

“The conviction and sentencing follow an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) after the bodies of three murder suspects, allegedly tortured and executed by the police officers and their informants investigating the case, were found in an isolated area in Carletonville in May 2015.

“The deceased who were murdered are Innocent Thabiso Mthembu, Andile Ndlovu and Tshepo Henry Nhlapo.” said Ipid spokesperson Moses Dlamini.

He said two policemen went on the run after the murders were exposed but were later arrested.

“It is alleged that in April 2015, the police officers, as well as three informants, went to arrest four murder suspects. The suspects were identified by the informers and then arrested by the officers.

“One suspect was tortured until he passed out. The policemen then took the suspect to a hospital where he was certified dead. They then drove around with the dead body in their vehicle as well as the other suspects to a field in Carletonville to cover up the evidence.”  Dlamini said.

He alleged that the officers shot three suspects, but one escaped and was picked up by a passer-by who took him to hospital.

“One of the informants approached Gauteng police and the matter was reported to the IPID. It was established that some of the informants had been part of the killings. Two Constables, who were based at Springs Detectives, and two civilians were on trial since 22 May 201.” he said.

Dlamini revealed that one constable was acquitted of all charges.

“The Constables as well as their commander, a Colonel, have since been dismissed from the SAPS following a disciplinary process.” he said.