The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa welcomes the life sentences handed to these murderers who have not only robbed the South African Police Service of a dedicated police officer, but also robbed a family of a loved one. Although such a sentence would never return Sergeant Madyene back, we find solace that at the end justice has been served.
Four of the five suspects who were involved in the armed robbery of a filling station at Burgersfort and the subsequent shooting and killing of a police sergeant experienced the full might of the law when they were handed lengthy jail term on Friday.
Joseph Malapane (30), Christoper Matenchi (32), Phishego Malepe (27) and Andrew Matemane (30) were sentenced to life imprisonment plus 20 years in the Lydenburg Regional Court after they were found guilty of attempted robbery, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition and murder.
“We applaud the SAPS Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, General Mpembe and his team for their dedication throughout the investigation which resulted in the apprehension and successful prosecution of these criminals. We also extend our applause to the National Prosecuting Authority for this harsh sentence, which we believe will send a strong warning message to any would-be police killer that crime does not reward.”
Minister Mthethwa stressed the fact that Sergeant Madyene lost his life whilst on duty, serves as a harsh reminder of the kind of dangers our officers are faced with, on a daily basis. “Each year we gather as police leadership and management to commemorate and remember fallen heroes such as Sergeant Madyene who refused to be discouraged by actions of heartless criminals. It is not a pleasant occasion.”
“Such officers, in their pursuance of safeguarding the weak and the vulnerable in society, they dedicate their lives and serve with excellence. Such officers remain steadfast in protecting and waging a war against crime. For this reason, any person who kills a police officer deserves a hefty punishment,” he added.
Crime is our common enemy; more especially the killing of our police officers by senseless criminals is a matter that worries us as the police leadership and management. For this reason, we remain firmly committed to strengthening partnerships with communities, to ensure the attainment of the goal of peace, security, and comfort for all.
For enquiries, please contact:
Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister of Police
Cell: 082 045 4024
