The Makhanda High Court has handed down a significant sentence to Sanele Mankayi (35) and Bongani Silo (41) for their involvement in the attempted murder of East London K9 Warrant Officer “Swanie” Swanepoel.
The accused will collectively serve 170 years behind bars, with Mankayi sentenced to 25 years and Silo to 22 years.
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The incident occurred on 23 November 2021 when Warrant Officer Pieter Swanepoel encountered a suspicious vehicle while on patrol in East London’s Quigney area.
As he approached the vehicle, he was met with gunfire, resulting in an upper body gunshot wound that left him permanently disabled. The suspects fled the scene but were later apprehended by the East London-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks.
Following multiple court appearances, both accused were convicted and sentenced on 14 February 2024 at the Makhanda High Court.
The breakdown of their sentences is as follows: Mankayi received 10 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, 20 years for two counts of attempted murder, 12 years for two counts of attempted murder with aggravating circumstances, 10 years for possession of a firearm without a licence, and 5 years for unlawful possession of ammunition.
Silo received 7 years for theft, 20 years for two counts of attempted murder, 15 years for unlawful possession of ammunition, and 5 years for two counts of unlawful possession of ammunition.
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The Provincial Head, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the efforts of the East London Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, the National Prosecuting Authority, and other law enforcement agencies for securing substantial sentences for those who target police officers. He emphasised that these sentences would serve as a deterrent to potential offenders.
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This case highlights the commitment of the justice system to protect those who serve and protect our communities.
The sentencing sends a clear message that crimes against law enforcement officers will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face severe consequences for their actions.
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