The police has confirmed the conviction and sentencing of Ndumiso Bhengu, who was found guilty of extortion in the Germiston Regional Court on April 25.

Bhengu was sentenced to five years’ direct imprisonment following an extortion case opened in Bedfordview in 2025.

According to a police statement, the case dates back to January 2025 when Bhengu contacted the complainant and falsely claimed he had been approached by one of her colleagues to arrange her murder. He further alleged he had a recording as proof of the supposed plot.

ALSO READ: City of Ekurhuleni warns against job scams, promotes official vacancies

The accused then demanded R5 000 from the complainant in exchange for the recording. Fearing for her safety, the victim made an initial payment of R2 500.

After receiving the money, Bhengu ceased communication and could not be reached.

The matter was subsequently reported to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), where a case was opened and an investigation launched.

An intelligence-driven operation was conducted in the Vaal District on January 25, 2025, involving members from DPCI Head Office Crime Against the State, Crime Intelligence and the Sedibeng K9 Unit.

Bhengu was arrested on January 28, 2025, and various items linked to the offence were seized during the operation.

He made his first court appearance in the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on January 30, 2025, where he was formally charged. Bail was successfully opposed, and he remained in custody until the conclusion of the trial.

Police said the sentence sends a strong message that extortion and intimidation will not be tolerated.