A man convicted of killing an Eastern Cape police officer whilst on duty in January 2015, has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Mangaliso Grootboom (28) was sentenced in the Port Elizabeth High Court on Wednesday, for the murder of Constable Simthembile Thandani (31).
Grootboom was also sentenced to eight years imprisonment for attempted robbery, four years for unlawful possession of firearm and one year for unlawful possession of ammunition.
Police spokesperson, Captain Anelisa Feni, says Thandani and a colleague stopped a vehicle in KwaZakhele, Port Elizabeth, whilst on duty on the 7th of January 2015.
"While they were busy talking to the driver of the vehicle, two men approached and a tussle ensued between the suspects and the members. During the struggle, Thandani was shot twice in the upper body by Grootboom with his unlicensed revolver," Feni said.
"Thandani returned fire and shot Grootboom also in the upper body however he managed to escape with his accomplice who is still at large. Unfortunately Thandani succumbed to his wounds at the scene," Feni said.
The Hawks received information during the same evening that a man who fit Grootboom's description was admitted at the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital, where he was arrested.
The Eastern Cape Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major-General Nyameko Nogwanya, congratulated the team for securing the sentence.
"It is a real nightmare when one of our members is killed. We have vowed never to rest to arrest and successfully convict those who kill our police officers. You kill a police officer, you temper with the peace and stability of this country. This sentencing is highly appreciated and is set to send a clear message wherever you are, the claws of the Hawks will catch you," he said.
