Durban — KwaZulu-Natal police sergeant Ntokozo Mngqithi, 34, who is facing charges of murder has also been charged with corruption and defeating the ends of justice.
KZN Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo said Mngqithi was already detained for the murder of his fiancée.
Mhlongo stated that Mngqithi was investigating a culpable homicide case involving a crash that resulted in the deaths of seven passengers.
It is alleged that Mngqithi approached the truck driver and demanded R60 000 gratification to squash the docket.
“Indeed certain crucial evidence was not submitted before the court despite numerous instructions on the docket. He allegedly lied about the evidence, resulting in the case being provisionally withdrawn. The case docket was allocated to another investigating officer and Mngqithi’s foul play was discovered,” Mhlongo said.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Mngqithi was paid more than R30 000 to his bank account.
Mngqithi appeared in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. He was remanded into police custody. The case was postponed to December 19, 2024, for bail application.
Reacting, KZN Hawks head Major General (Dr) Lesetja Senona welcomed the arrest and commended the members for the good work.
“We will deal decisively with corruption within the police as it puts the name of the South African Police Service into disrepute and erodes public trust in the judiciary system,” Senona said.
Last month, Hawks members from Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit arrested Mngqithi for the murder of police sergeant Ntombi Mbanjwa, 33.
At the time, Mhlongo said that on April 11, 2024, Mbanjwa was sitting at home in uMzimkhulu when an unknown suspect shot at her.
No one was there during the incident and Mngqithi discovered the incident when he returned home later that evening.
Both sergeants were stationed at Umzimkhulu police station.
A murder case was reported at Umzimkhulu police station and Hawks members attended the crime scene. A thorough investigation was conducted and positive leads were followed. As a result, Mngqithi was arrested.
Mngqithi briefly appeared in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court and was remanded in custody. The case was postponed to December 3, 2024, for bail application.
WhatsApp your views on this story at 071 485 7995.
Daily News