FORMER POLICE OFFICER SENTENCED TO 36 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT

11 August 2025

FORMER POLICE OFFICER SENTENCED TO 36 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT

Limpopo, South Africa – The Limpopo Division of the High Court in Polokwane has convicted and sentenced former Warrant Officer Olson Mnisi (63) of Namakgale to a total of 36 years’ imprisonment, 16 years for two counts of attempted murder and 20 years for murder. The court further declared Mnisi unfit to possess firearms in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

Mnisi pleaded not guilty, but the court heard evidence that on 16 September 2018, at Mashishimale Village in Namakgale, he was part of a South African Police Service (SAPS) team, including the deceased, Colonel Lesiba Gilbert Matsetela, tasked with arresting a suspect in an armed robbery case.

Upon arrival at a tavern where the suspect was located, one of the officers engaged the suspect in conversation, after which the suspect was arrested. Without provocation, Mnisi opened fire on Colonel Matsetela and the suspect, injuring them both. Despite Colonel Matsetela warning him to stop as they were colleagues, Mnisi continued firing. The Colonel was rushed to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Mnisi was subsequently arrested.

In aggravation of sentence, State Advocate Patrick Magoda argued that the offence was particularly serious as it involved the betrayal of a fellow officer. He highlighted that the deceased’s family had lost a father and breadwinner, and that Mnisi’s actions undermined the trust and duty of care expected among law enforcement officials. Advocate Magoda urged the court to impose a sentence that would serve as a deterrent, particularly for public servants who abuse their positions.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the sentence. The Director of Public Prosecutions for Limpopo, Adv. Ivy Thenga stated: “This sentence sends a clear message to public officials that violations of the laws and codes governing their conduct will not go unpunished. “She also commended Advocate Magoda and Investigating Officer Vincent Mukhari of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for their role in securing the conviction.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi

NPA Regional Spokesperson – Limpopo Division

Email: mmalabi@npa.gov.za

Cell: 074 823 3608