The Johannesburg High Court has sentenced both Celekuhle Makhanye and Musawenkosi Siyanda Mkhize to life imprisonment and an additional combined 75 years for crimes with aggravating circumstances.
According to a statement issued by the Jeppe Police Station on 28 August, the two men were found guilty of murder and carjacking by the court
On 31 July 2016, constable Joshua Nyoni and constable Maroping Motena of Jeppe police, were busy patrolling in Bertrams when they stopped two men on Terrence Road to search their car.
Police spokesperson Richard Munyai said when the officers were about to search the car, they noticed a Toyota RunX surrounded by several people and there was a commotion.
The police suddenly heard two gun shots and the car drove off. The police then chased the car to Joe Slovo Drive in Jeppestown where the driver of the Run X hit a bridge pillar,” said Munyai.
“They then got out of the car and started shooting at the police. The officers returned fire and one of them fled on foot leaving the other suspect inside the car.”
Munyai said Nyoni gave chase and managed to apprehend one of the suspects while Motena arrested the other suspect who remained inside the car. A firearm was also found in his possession.
“Upon investigation, it was discovered that the suspects had shot and killed Mthobisi Zuma (35) when they hijacked his Toyota RunX.”
Makhanye was sentenced to life imprisonment and an additional 29 years in prison for murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and attempted murder of the police officers.
Mkhize was also sentenced to life imprisonment and a further 46 years for murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Munyai said the sentences will run concurrently.
Details: Jeppe Police Station 011 624 6042
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