LIMPOPO – The Mokopane Regional Court has sentenced former Gauteng Police Sergeant Ntshavheni Ndonyane (44) to five years of direct imprisonment for the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The sentencing follows his arrest in April 2024 near the Nyl Plaza Tollgate during a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

A multidisciplinary team had been established to investigate a series of targeted killings in Thohoyandou, believed to be linked to organised criminal groups known as the Jerusalem Gang and the Black Mafia Forum (BMF).

Officer dismissed and held without bail

At the time of his arrest, Ndonyane was attached to the Public Order Policing (POPS) Johannesburg Unit and was found in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition suspected to have been used in several violent crimes committed by members of these gangs.

Following his arrest, he was dismissed from the South African Police Service and remained in custody without bail until the conclusion of his case this month on Thursday (November 6).

Provincial Investigation Unit secures conviction

The case was investigated by Sergeant Lucas Letlotlo Ledwaba of the Provincial Investigation Unit, whose work led to the successful conviction.

SAPS leadership welcomes ruling

Acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Jan Scheepers, welcomed the conviction and sentencing, commending the investigative team for their dedication and professionalism.

“This conviction sends a strong and clear message that the SAPS will not tolerate any form of criminal conduct within its ranks. We will continue to dismantle organised criminal networks and ensure that those who betray the badge face the consequences in terms of the law.”