On the 30 November 2018 at approximately 17:30, Mr Christopher Simphiwe Mabambo was at work at SG Freight Trucking in Roseneath, Umkomaas area. He received a call in his office and went outside to the main gate of his company. Whilst standing there, he was approached by two males on foot, who both pulled out a firearm and began shooting at Mr Mabambo several times. Mr Mabambo fell to the ground and both men disappeared on foot.
Shortly after the shooting, a description of the suspects were released on the police radio. Umkomaas Crime Prevention members saw two men fitting the description walking down the road in Umkomaas area. They approached the suspects, who immediately took out their firearms to shot at the police. One suspect dropped his firearm and surrendered by raising his hands in the air. The second suspect continued in pointing his firearm at the police members and refused to surrender and put his firearm down. Police fired shots injuring the suspect in the hand, leg and shoulder. Both suspects were immediately searched. Inside their belongings, police found four (4) cellphones, two (2) firearms, thirty (30) rounds of ammunition and clothing. They were immediately put under arrest for murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Detective Captain Thavandaren Sooriah Naidoo, a seasoned investigating officer, was tasked to investigate the case. The case was remanded several times due to Covid-19 regulations, however, after a lengthy trial both accused were found guilty at the Scottburgh High court on the 2nd of September 2021.
The first accused, Sphelele Goodenough Msawoni, aged 33, was handed a life sentence for murder, fifteen (15) years for possession of unlicensed firearm and three (3) years for possession of unlicensed ammunition.
The second accused, Philani Msawoni aged 41, was also handed a life sentence for murder, fifteen (15) years for possession of unlicensed firearm and three (3) years for possession of unlicensed ammunition. All sentences will run concurrently with the life sentences.
Ethekwini District Commissioner, Major General M.R. Chirwa expresses his congratulations to all the members involved in the sterling work that resulted in the arrests and convictions for the murder.
Mr Mabambo’s wife and family personally thanked Captain Naidoo for his excellent investigation skills and presentation before the High Court in the matter. They believe justice was served with two life sentences.
Captain T.S. Naidoo responded and said, “I am happy that justice was served and both accused received a life sentence for the murder of Mr Mabambo and that his family are comforted by the sentences handed out by the High Court.”
Source: South African Police Service