NPA SECURES 25-YEAR DIRECT IMPRISONMENT SENTENCE FOR MURDER OF POLICE OFFICER

PRETORIA, GAUTENG – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence of 25 years’ direct imprisonment imposed by the Pretoria High Court on Boko Harram member Ephraim Lonwabo Makoko (29) for the murder of police officer Sergeant Leka Philip Maja.

Makoko was sentenced to 25 years’ direct imprisonment for murder, 15 years’ direct imprisonment on each of five counts of attempted murder of police officers, 15 years’ direct imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm, and 15 years’ direct imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition. The court ordered the sentences for attempted murder and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition to run concurrently with the 25-year sentence for murder, resulting in an effective sentence of 25 years’ direct imprisonment. Makoko was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

In June 2023, police received a tip-off that Makoko and his accomplices were occupying a house in the Mamelodi Lusaka Informal Settlement and were in possession of illegal firearms. When police arrived at the house, Makoko and his accomplices opened fire on them, resulting in a shootout. During the exchange of gunfire, Sergeant Maja was shot and killed at the scene. Makoko was apprehended and arrested at the scene. He has remained in custody since his arrest after the NPA successfully opposed his application for bail.

During the trial, Makoko pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. However, State Prosecutor Advocate Michael Shivuri presented compelling evidence that proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. During sentencing proceedings, Makoko, through his legal representative, asked the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. In mitigation, he submitted that he was a first-time offender, had two minor children who depended on him, and was self-employed at the time of his arrest. Advocate Shivuri argued that Makoko had been convicted of extremely serious offences and had shown no remorse. He further submitted that Sergeant Maja was ruthlessly killed while on duty serving and protecting the community, and that Makoko and his accomplices had also endangered the lives of members of the community during the shootout. Advocate Shivuri also presented Victim Impact Statements (VIS) facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Lebogang Lebese. In their statements, Sergeant Maja’s wife and child described the profound emotional, financial and psychological impact his death has had on their lives.

In handing down sentence, the court agreed with the State that Makoko had shown no remorse despite being convicted of serious offences and noted that Sergeant Maja was killed while performing his duties and protecting the community. The court further considered the firearm-related offences and found no substantial and compelling circumstances warranting a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentences.

The NPA welcomes the sentence as an affirmation that attacks on police officers who put their lives at risk to protect communities will be prosecuted with determination.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting those responsible for the murder and attempted murder of police officers, as well as perpetrators of other serious violent crimes, to ensure justice for victims and contribute towards safer communities.

Issued by:

Lumka Mahanjana

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Gauteng Division, Pretoria