The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended the Port Shepstone Serious Organized Crime Investigation (Hawks) for their diligent work in apprehending Sergeant Ntokozo Mngqithi (34) on Tuesday, 10 December 2024, for charges of corruption and defeating the ends of justice.
Sergeant Mngqithi, who had already been detained for the murder of his fiancée, Sergeant Ntombi Mbanjwa, now faces additional charges related to a corruption incident from November 2022. According to the Hawks’ statement, Mngqithi allegedly solicited a bribe of R60,000 from a truck driver involved in a culpable homicide case. The truck had collided with a light motor vehicle, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives. Mngqithi reportedly demanded the bribe in exchange for suppressing crucial evidence, which was not submitted to court despite multiple directives to do so.
The case was reassigned to another investigator, and the Hawks uncovered that Mngqithi had received over R30,000 into his bank account in relation to this bribe.
Premier Ntuli remarked, "This is proof that lawlessness has no place in our province, even within the South African Police Service. No one is above the law, as demonstrated by the arrest of one of their own. I commend the work of the police, especially the TRT members and the police force in Umzinyathi District, for their swift actions in arresting three individuals involved in illegal firearms and ammunition possession during two separate incidents."
The Premier expressed satisfaction with the police's response to criminal elements in KwaZulu-Natal, praising the leadership of General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for setting a high standard for his team. He further encouraged the public to support the police by exposing corrupt individuals within both the community and law enforcement. "Together, we can ensure that the law takes its course," said Premier Ntuli.
Sergeant Mngqithi briefly appeared in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on 10 December 2024, where he was remanded in custody. His case has been postponed to 19 December 2024 for a bail application. The three suspects found in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition will appear in the Msinga Magistrates Court soon.
For further information, please contact:
Mr. Bongani Gina
Chief Director: Provincial Government Communications
Contact: 071 217 3037
Mr. Lindelani Mbatha
Media Liaison Officer
Contact: 061 499 0774
Ms Sindiswa Hlophe
Comsafety Head of Communications
Contact: 082 045 8361
ISSUED BY THE KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT