Former Police Officer Sentenced to 15 Years Imprisonment

18 MARCH 2025
 

Former Police Officer Sentenced to 15 Years Imprisonment

Limpopo, South Africa – The Mokopane Regional Court has sentenced former Mahwelereng police officer, Sergeant Nierush Seanego (32) of Mzimbane Village, to 15 years of direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances. Seanego pleaded not guilty, but the State presented compelling evidence, including witness testimonies. The court heard that on 02 February 2023, two male victims were waiting in a queue to pay at the Zebediela Plaza toll gate when their vehicle was suddenly blocked by an unidentified car. Two armed men approached them, followed by a marked police vehicle that blocked them from behind. A uniformed officer, later identified as Seanego, exited the police vehicle with a firearm. The victims were forcibly removed from their vehicle, and R20,000 in cash was stolen.

Following an intensive investigation, authorities arrested Seanego on 4 March 2024. The investigation further revealed that he had the state vehicle at the time of the crime. The SAPS Automatic Movement System (vehicle tracker) placed the police vehicle at the crime scene, ultimately leading to his conviction.

During sentencing, State Prosecutor Dibuleng Christina Rakoma emphasized that Seanego had betrayed his oath to uphold the law and protect the public. She argued that he had misused state resources, including a police vehicle and uniform, to commit a violent robbery. The State further submitted that no substantial or compelling circumstances warranted a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the court’s decision. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Limpopo, Advocate Ivy Thenga, expressed hope that this sentence will serve as a deterrent to other state officials contemplating criminal activities. She also commended Prosecutor Rakoma, and all stakeholders involved in securing the conviction.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi
NPA Regional Spokesperson – Limpopo Division
Email: mmalabi@npa.gov.za
Cell: 074 823 3603