Key points
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Hawks are looking for two men linked to a sergeant’s murder.
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The victim’s fiancé is among those arrested.
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A separate officer was killed during a robbery in April.
The Hawks have launched a public appeal. They are searching for two men linked to the murder of a KwaZulu-Natal police sergeant.
The suspects are Xolani Ngobese, also known as Xolani Ndlovu, and Sanele Mthembu. They may hold crucial information about the killing of Sergeant Ntombi Mbanjwa.
Tragically, someone shot and killed Mbanjwa, 33, at her home in Umzimkhulu in April 2024. The Hawks believe these suspects played an active role in the crime.
Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo, the Hawks’ provincial spokesperson, shared important updates. He confirmed that officers have arrested several people in connection with the murder.
Police arrested Sergeant Ntokozo Mngqithi, the victim’s 36-year-old fiancé. They also took Bhungane Hadebe into custody. Both face charges of direct involvement.
Authorities intensify search as more details emerge
The search for the remaining suspects continues. Authorities say Sanele Mthembu comes from Bulwer. He last operated a tuckshop in Dambuza, Pietermaritzburg.
Investigators say Xolani Ngobese, also known as Ndlovu, once worked as an Uber driver. He lived at Capital City Housing flats in Edendale.
The Hawks are asking for any tips or information. Anyone who sees either suspect should call Warrant Officer Sipho Mnguni at 082 556 9559.
This public appeal highlights the urgency of the investigation. The case has shocked the community and drawn attention across KwaZulu-Natal.
Off-duty officer killed in unrelated April robbery
In a separate tragedy, five gunmen shot a 36-year-old off-duty police officer. The robbers attacked him in broad daylight in Inanda.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the officer had parked his car and walked into a tuckshop. Suddenly, the suspects surrounded him and opened fire.
The officer fired back and injured one of the attackers. However, he died at the scene due to multiple gunshot wounds.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) responded after 6:30 p.m. By then, people had already rushed the injured officer to the hospital. His family later confirmed his death.
Police found multiple 9mm cartridges at the scene. Officers arrested the injured suspect at a nearby clinic.
These back-to-back tragedies underline the increasing risks police officers face daily. The public’s help is more important than ever.
