KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended police diligence in apprehending those found on the wrong side of the law, even within police ranks.
Ntuli’s remarks come after the Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit (Hawks) arrested Sergeant Ntokozo Mngqithi (34) for corruption and defeating the ends of justice.
Mngqithi, who was already detained for the murder of his fiancée, Sergeant Ntombi Mbanjwa, has been charged with corruption, which was committed in November 2022, when he was investigating a case of culpable homicide, after a truck collided with a light motor vehicle and seven passengers died.
It is alleged that Mngqithi approached the truck driver and demanded R60 000 gratification in order to squash the docket.
However, certain crucial evidence was not submitted before the court despite numerous instructions on the docket. Mngqithi allegedly lied about that evidence and the case was provisionally withdrawn.
The case docket was then allocated to another investigating officer and Mngqithi’s foul play was discovered.
During the Hawks investigation, it was discovered that Mngqithi was paid more than R30 000 to his bank account.
Reacting to the new developments in the case, Ntuli said Mngqithi’s arrest is proof that lawlessness has no place in the province, “even within the South African Police Service.”
“No one is above the law, as demonstrated by the arrest of one of their own. I [also] commend the work of the police, especially the TRT (Tactical Response Team) members and the police force in Umzinyathi District, for their swift actions in arresting three individuals involved in illegal firearms and ammunition possession during two separate incidents.”
The Premier also expressed satisfaction with the police's response to criminal elements in KwaZulu-Natal, and praised the leadership of KZN Police Commissioner, Lieutenant -General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for setting a high standard for his team.
The Premier further encouraged the public to support the police by exposing corrupt individuals within both the community and law enforcement, emphasising "together, we can ensure that the law takes its course."
Mngqithi made a brief appearance in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he was remanded in custody.
His case has been postponed to 19 December 2024 for bail application. – SAnews.gov.za
