LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER OF POLICE OFFICER

24 OCTOBER 2025

LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER OF POLICE OFFICER

The Esikhawini Regional Court sentenced Thulani Mcabangeli Ngema (41) to life imprisonment for the attempted murder of a police officer on duty, and three years imprisonment for resisting arrest. The incident took place on 26 March 2024 in Mtunzini, and the complainants are two South African Police Service (SAPS) officers, namely Sgt. Xolani Mdletshe and Sgt. Thando Langa.

In the early hours of the morning of the incident, SAPS members (including the two complainants) went to Ngema’s homestead to arrest him on an assault GBH case, which his mother had opened. Ngema swore at them and asked them to leave. He then charged at them, armed with a grass slasher, a hammer and a spear. Since it was dark, Ngema was able to evade the officers by running in and out of the nearby bushes. At some point, Mdletshe and Langa tried to approach Ngema. Ngema managed to avoid Langa, and he stabbed Mdletshe on the head with the spear. Mdletshe was rushed to the hospital, and Ngema was eventually subdued and arrested.

In court, Prosecutor Kamogelo Mahila Nkwatle led the testimony of the complainants, with Mdletshe telling the court that he had suffered a fracture on his skull. This resulted in him having to undergo several surgeries, and he spent three months in the hospital. Mdletshe also spoke of the emotional and psychological trauma he experienced because of the attack. Ngema was sentenced accordingly, and the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the successful finalisation of this matter. Police officers are being killed daily in the line of duty, and the courts must send out a strong message to deter would-be offenders.

Issued by:

Natasha Ramkisson-Kara

NPA Regional Spokesperson

KZN Division

0716700229