An extortionist who fabricated a murder plot to coerce money from a Bedfordview victim has been sentenced to five years’ imprisonment.

Ndumiso Bhengu was convicted by the Germiston Regional Court on April 25 following an investigation into an incident reported in early 2025.

According to Hawks spokesperson Col Katlego Mogale, Bhengu contacted the complainant in January 2025, falsely claiming that a colleague had hired him to arrange her murder.

ALSO READ: South African crime statistics show decline in violent crime, but challenges remain

He alleged he had a recording as proof and demanded R5 000 in exchange for it.

“Fearing for her safety, the victim made an initial payment of R2 500. Bhengu then ceased all communication,” said Mogale.

The matter was reported to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Head Office: Crime Against the State, prompting an intelligence-driven operation in the Vaal District.

Bhengu was arrested on January 28 last year during a joint operation involving DPCI, Crime Intelligence and the Sedibeng K9 unit.

Authorities seized cellphones, SIM cards and recharge vouchers linked to the offence.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Premier welcomes SANDF deployment to curb illegal mining and crime

He made his first court appearance in the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on January 30, 2025.

Bail was successfully opposed and he remained in custody until sentencing.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the conviction underscores law enforcement’s commitment to tackling serious organised crime.

“This conviction demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and sends a strong message that extortion-related crimes will not go unpunished,” said Mogale.