Four individuals have been apprehended in relation to the abduction and killing of Lieutenant Colonel Sikhetho Mawila, a prominent officer from the South African Police Services’ Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks.
Lieutenant Colonel Mawila was a member of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in Durban and was reportedly accosted by the suspects while returning to the city for work.
According to a report from SurgeZirc SA, Mawila had informed his family that he intended to refuel his vehicle before heading back to Durban. Concern arose when his family was unable to reach him several hours later, prompting them to raise the alarm.
A passer-by discovered Mawila’s lifeless body and promptly alerted the authorities. His family was able to positively identify him. The Hlanganani police station opened a case involving charges of murder, kidnapping, and hijacking.
Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Philani Nkwalase, revealed that the suspects, ranging in age from 23 to 44, were apprehended on Wednesday morning.
The arrest was the result of a collaborative effort between the East Rand Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks, Gauteng Traffic’s Special Law Enforcement Unit (SLEU), and Ekurhuleni Metro Police’s Saturation Task Team (STT).
Colonel Nkwalase stated, “The joint operation conducted by this multidisciplinary team led to the arrest and seizure of various items, including a cellphone, the deceased’s laptop, a service pistol with live ammunition, a car jack, a wallet, a pair of running shoes, a suitcase, keys, a cooler box, and a knife. Additionally, the burnt vehicle that was hijacked was also located.”
The suspects are scheduled to make their initial court appearance at the Tsakane Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where they will face preliminary charges of murder, kidnapping, and hijacking.
Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, the National Head of the Hawks, commended the collaborative efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in the operation.
“We commend the dedication and efficiency demonstrated by the joint team, resulting in the swift arrest of the perpetrators and ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions,” said Lieutenant General Lebeya.
