25-year sentence: Ex-policeman jailed for argument killing in Ekurhuleni

An ex-policeman from Ekurhuleni’s Katlehong has been sentenced to 25 years in jail after he was found guilty of murder on Thursday.

FORMER EKURHULENI POLICEMAN GETS SENTENCED

Simphiwe Ndlovu, who is a former cop, has been jailed for the killing of a civilian. The incident took place in 2020 when Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) were enforcing the Covid-19 level 5 lockdown.

Ndlovu was sentenced to 25 years for the murder of Sibusiso Amos, five for each of the three charges of attempted murder, five years for unlawful possession of a firearm, and two years for possession of ammunition without a license.

Amos was shot dead after he had an argument with EMPD officers after chasing patrons from a nearby tavern.

“Amos was shot at close range with live ammunition while standing behind a locked burglar gate,” said National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.

“The bullet was fired from one of the EMPD officers’ shotgun.”

CHILDREN WOUNDED IN THE SHOOTING

The report added that no less than three children were wounded before Amos’ killing.

Ndlovu informed the court that picked up a gun after an EMPD had lost his footing while facing angry community members.

“He then saw a scuffle inside the yard between Amos and EMPD officers. He approached and fired shots towards Amos to scare him off to stop the scuffle,” Mjonondwane added.

“He said the accused was in a position of power and authority as he acted with the EMPD. There was an unequal balance of power as the deceased was unarmed on the locked veranda. The deceased was unable to protect himself.

“Though he could have assisted the deceased after he was shot the accused just walked away without helping or securing the scene,” Mjonondwane said.

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