Hawks: Suspect linked to murder of EC detective appears in court

A suspect who is linked to the alleged murder of an Eastern Cape detective made his first court appearance following his arrest last week. The Hawks said three suspects have now been apprehended and more arrests are imminent.

HAWKS MAKING PROGRESS

Hawks spokesperson in the Eastern Cape Lieutenant Colonel Philani Nkwalase said Sergeant Mphakameli Mazinywana, who was attached to the Mthatha central detectives, was shot and killed at his home on 18 June 2021.

The suspects allegedly stole the 49-year-old officer’s service pistol.

On Tuesday, 18 January, Khuselo Mkhangeli was tracked down and arrested in connection with the murder. It was established that the accused was also arrested for another robbery in the Thabazimbi area of Limpopo.

Mkhangeli was the third suspect arrested. In July 2021, Ayanda Tutu and Siyanda Sonamzi were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms – two weapons were seized from the suspects, one of which is believed to be the gun used to kill the police officer.

Mkhangeli appeared before the Mthatha Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 January 2022. His case was postponed to Thursday for a bail application where he is expected to appear alongside his co-accused.

“More arrests [are] imminent as one of the suspects remain at large as the investigation continues,” said Nkwalase.

ALSO READ:

Senior officials who allegedly ‘groomed’ women for Fritz also suspended – report