An alleged Cape Town cop killer, Sive Sigobo, is set to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, following his recent rearrest. The arrest comes after months of eluding authorities, with a warrant for his capture issued earlier this year.
The Arrest
Sigobo, 34, was apprehended by members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) on Monday, December 16. According to Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, the Hawks’ National Priority Violent Crime Investigation (NPVC) team collaborated with the Cape Town Flying Squad and K9 Unit to locate and arrest the suspect.
“It is reported that in June 2022, Warrant Officer Siyakubonga Mphakathi, 49, was shot and killed by unknown suspects in Philippi, and his service pistol was stolen,” Vukubi said.
Sigobo, along with co-accused Xolisa Lufutha, was initially arrested and charged in connection with the murder. However, both were later released due to a legal technicality, prompting renewed efforts by law enforcement to bring them back into custody.
The Murder of Warrant Officer Mphakathi
Warrant Officer Mphakathi, a 49-year-old member of the SAPS stationed at Philippi Railway Station, was ambushed in June 2022. He was killed while sitting in his Toyota Tazz on Ngulube Street, a crime that shocked the local community and his colleagues.
The perpetrators not only took Mphakathi’s life but also stole his service pistol, an act that underscored the violent nature of the crime.
Legal Proceedings and Rearrest Warrants
Following the murder, both Sigobo and Lufutha were charged and denied bail. Their case was transferred to the Western Cape High Court, where it was later struck off the roll due to administrative issues.
Lieutenant Colonel Vukubi explained:
“The case was later remanded to the Western Cape High Court, where it was struck from the court roll because of an administration issue. Both accused were then released. Warrants of arrest were obtained for them to be re-arrested.”
Efforts to bring the accused back into custody began immediately, with Lufutha being arrested in May 2024. He was subsequently released on bail, with his trial set for February 11, 2025, in the Khayelitsha Priority Court.
Sigobo, however, remained at large, evading authorities for months.
The Rearrest of Sigobo
Acting on intelligence regarding Sigobo’s whereabouts, the Hawks and supporting units successfully located and detained him on December 16. The arrest marks a significant development in the case, ensuring that both accused will now face trial for the murder of Warrant Officer Mphakathi.
“Information was received about the whereabouts of the outstanding accused, and he was subsequently arrested. Sigobo will make his appearance at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on December 17, 2024,” Vukubi said.
Community and SAPS Response
The murder of Warrant Officer Mphakathi left a deep impact on the SAPS and the Philippi community. Mphakathi was described as a dedicated officer who served his station and community with distinction. His death not only robbed the SAPS of a valuable member but also highlighted ongoing challenges regarding violence against law enforcement in South Africa.
The SAPS and the Hawks have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice is served. Lieutenant Colonel Vukubi emphasized the importance of bringing those responsible to account and restoring confidence in the justice system.
Next Steps in the Case
Sigobo’s court appearance will address both the charges against him and his potential bail application. Given the serious nature of the allegations, the prosecution is expected to oppose bail once again.
Meanwhile, co-accused Lufutha awaits trial in the Khayelitsha Priority Court in February 2025.
This case is a reminder of the risks faced by police officers and the challenges law enforcement encounters in prosecuting violent crimes. The rearrest of Sigobo represents a step forward in the fight for justice for Warrant Officer Mphakathi and his grieving family.
Authorities have urged the public to assist in reporting any suspicious activity or information that could aid in solving other ongoing cases.
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