District commissioner commends SAPS’ exemplary efforts

Ekurhuleni District commissioner Major General Anna Sithole commended two Springs SAPS officials for their efforts in securing sentences for individuals convicted of various crimes.

Through diligence, investigating officer Detective Sergeant Raymond Mogashoa pursued the case of a man shot dead in Daggafontein.

At midnight on April 3, 2022, a dispute arose at a tavern between the deceased and Karabo Michael Mahlake (35), whereby the tavern owner intervened, separating the two parties.

Ekurhuleni district spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela said after the altercation, the deceased left for home, as the tavern owner had advised.

“Tragically, news later emerged that the deceased had been fatally shot, and nobody had information,” said Sekgobela.

On April 6, Mahlake’s legal representative brought him to the police station, and he was subsequently detained.
The Springs Magistrate’s Court found Mahlake guilty of murder and sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment.

“Additionally, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Sekgobela.

In a separate incident, the Springs Magistrate’s Court found George Sithole (44) guilty and sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment on April 25. Officers doing routine patrols along the N12 in the morning arrested Sithole on August 3, 2023.

“The officers encountered a Mazda bakkie parked on the roadside with three men inside who fled from the vehicle upon seeing them,” said Sekgobela.

“Pursuing the men, the police apprehended Sithole and the other two fleeing the scene.”

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When the police searched Sithole, they found two cellphones in his possession. Further investigation revealed the phones were linked to a business robbery in August 2023 in the Heidelberg area.

Sithole was arrested and detained at the Springs SAPS on charges of possessing stolen property.

“Detective Sergeant Shadrack Masiloane of the Ekurhuleni Trio Task Team meticulously investigated the case and left no stone unturned by ensuring a thorough investigation until Sithole was found guilty.

“He was charged with robbery with aggravating circumstances and received two years for violating the Immigration Act.”

The sentences will run concurrently. Sithole will be deported to Mozambique on completion of the term.
Sithole thanked the Springs SAPS officers for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts in pursuing justice.