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Media
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Media Alert The Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) wishes to inform that Sergeant Tumelo Nyathi (37), who is stationed at SAPS Namahadi, Free State Province, was convicted of murder in the QwaQwa Regional Court on Tuesday, 5 October 2004. The incident which claimed the life of Thabo Mzizi (25) occurred on Friday, 13 June 2003 at QwaQwa in the Free State. Sgt Nyathi, accompanied by his friend, went to the local tavern in full uniform after going off duty. On arrival, an argument ensued between him and Mr Mzizi. He shot the deceased three times, killing him instantly. The ICD immediately took charge of the investigation and on finalization thereof, forwarded the case docket to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) with a recommendation that Sgt Nyathi be prosecuted on murder. The DPP accepted our recommendation. The ICD managed to successfully oppose the bail application of Sgt Nyathi, and he remained in custody until his conviction and sentencing. On Tuesday, 5 October 2004, the QwaQwa Regional Court, Free State, convicted Sgt Nyathi of murder and sentenced him to 15 years' imprisonment. Sgt Nyathi was renowned to be an "untouchable" police officer in the QwaQwa area. He was previously prosecuted for murder on four separate occasions and all these cases were investigated by the SAPS. He was acquitted in all four prosecutions. The Magistrate remarked that the killing by Sgt Nyathi was premeditated. For enquiries contact: |
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