20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTED MURDER OF A POLICE OFFICER 

28 August 2025 

20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTED MURDER OF A POLICE OFFICER 

Nelspruit, Mpumalanga – The Nelspruit Magistrates’ Court has convicted and sentenced Muzi Sydwell Singwane (26) to an effective 20 years direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances and attempted murder of a police officer. On the evening of 6 October 2023, the complainant, who is a police officer, was driving home near Kaapmuiden when he stopped to assist an individual who appeared to be hitchhiking. Two more individuals emerged and entered the vehicle, with Singwane occupying the front passenger seat. 

When the vehicle reached its destination, Singwane produced a firearm and shot the complainant in the head. The officer was then robbed of two firearms, including his service pistol, as well as cash. The attackers forced the victim into the boot of his vehicle before fleeing. A police intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of Singwane. The State successfully opposed his bail application. During the trial, he pleaded not guilty and distanced himself from the charges. However, State Prosecutor Michael Mazibuko led compelling evidence, including the testimony of the complainant, which the court found credible. 

In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Mazibuko argued that no circumstances justified a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence. He emphasised that society needs to be protected from offenders like Singwane, who showed no remorse for his actions. The court agreed, sentencing Singwane to 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, and 15 years for attempted murder, with 10 years of the attempted murder sentence ordered to run concurrently with the robbery sentence. This brought the effective sentence to 20 years of direct imprisonment. Additionally, Singwane was declared unfit to possess a firearm. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) continues to prosecute cases that threaten the safety and well-being of communities, ensuring justice for victims of crime. This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement and prosecutors to holding violent offenders accountable. Ends.

Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa 

Regional Spokesperson

NPA Mpumalanga 

Tel: 013 045 0625 / 076 485 5446 

Email: mnyuswa@npa.gov.za