The Mthatha High Court has sentenced four suspects to life imprisonment for their brutal attack on Engcobo police officers on the 21st of February 2018. Â Andani Monco (36), Kwanele Ndlwana (28), Siphosomzi Tshefu whose age is unknown, and Phumzile Mhlatywa (51) were each convicted of five counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and multiple firearms-related offenses, among other crimes.
This shocking incident shook the whole country where five police officials from the Engcobo police station in the Eastern Cape were ambushed, resulting in their tragic deaths. The suspects not only robbed the officers of their firearms but also attempted to bomb a nearby Capitec Bank ATM during the chaos.
Their co-accused, Siphesihle Tatsi, previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 years in prison on July 27, 2023, for his involvement. The remaining four opted for trial, resulting in their conviction on May 17, 2024.
On October 16, 2024, the court handed down the sentences: Monco will serve 35 years, Mhlatywa 25 years, and Ndlwana and Tshefu will face 40 years, all running concurrently with five life terms.
