Pretoria – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for a man who is suspected of killing a police constable in Mpumalanga.
Constable Joseph Baloyi, 35, an investigating officer, who was stationed at the Kabokweni Police Station, was shot and killed while driving into his house on Wednesday evening.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said the police were already hot on the heels of the suspected hit man - Mthobisi Lennox Ngwenyama - who escaped from lawful custody in May.
He was to appear before the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on a charge of rhino poaching – a case which Constable Baloyi was investigating.
“Ngwenyama is also facing serious charges which include amongst others a car hijacking which he allegedly committed last year, a 2012 house robbery, two of housebreaking which he is alleged to have committed in 2012,” Mulaudzi said.
Acting Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Major General Mthandazo Ntlemeza expressed shock and outrage at the “brutal and barbaric attack” on Constable Baloyi.
“We wish to assure the public that our resolve to win the battle against violent crimes will not be shaken by this incident. Additionally, these blatant attacks on our members will not deter us from carrying out our duty to the nation.
“The manhunt is on, we will not rest until Ngwenyama is behind bars,” said Ntlemeza.
According to Mulaudzi, Ngwenyama’s “hit list” includes two other Hawks members.
“We are determined to bring the suspect to book before any further bloodshed.”
Police have appealed to anyone with information which can lead to Ngwenyama’s whereabouts can contact Captain Brian Thela on 0823409901, Crime Stop 086001011 or the nearest police station. - SAnews.gov.za
