Hawks arrest four alleged cop killers
The suspects appeared in the Vosloorus Magistrate’s Court.
Law enforcers arrested a group of men who allegedly shot and killed SAPS officer Constable Siyabonga Zama Prince Thango during an armed robbery at a Vosloorus liquor store in July last year.
The suspected murderers – Hloniphani Cebolenkosi Nala (28), Tshepo Hopewell Langa (28), Nduduzo Xaba (27), and Mnelisi Nkosikhona Mbatha (28) – were arrested by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit under the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks).
According to the Gauteng SAPS, the incident unfolded at about 18:45 when a group of armed robbers attacked the Shoprite Liquor store in the Goldspot Shopping Centre.
Crime Prevention Unit members responded to the robbery, but as they entered the parking area, suspects at the entrance opened fire, fatally shooting Thango.
“Following intensive investigations, the suspects were arrested on robbery charges and an R5 rifle was recovered. The investigation, conducted under the guidance of the Boksburg senior public prosecutor, culminated in the recent arrests of the four individuals,” explained Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha.
The suspects appeared in the Vosloorus Magistrate’s Court on charges that included murder, with the case postponed to January 16.
“This operation’s success underscores the dedication and effectiveness of our members in pursuing justice and ensuring the safety of our communities.
“The Gauteng Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation remains committed to holding those who commit such heinous acts accountable,” said Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, the provincial head of the Hawks in Gauteng.
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