Phiyega elated by life sentence for cop killer

Siyavuya Mzantsi and ANA

LANGA resident Siphiwo Zondani has been handed a life sentence for killing police officer Mthetheleli Shephard Gunya and for the attempted murder of another officer in Nyanga last year.

Western Cape High Court Judge Elize Steyn also sentenced Zondani, 38, to 10 years for attempting to murder Vuyolwethu Mantash on October 17, 2014, and five years’ imprisonment for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, said police spokes- person FC van Wyk.

He said the sentences would run concurrently.

Van Wyk said Gunya, Mantash and Sergeant Mvuyisi Booi went to New Flats in Nyanga to look for a suspect in an unrelated matter.

On locating the suspect and arresting him, Zondani (a friend of the suspect) fired several shots at Gunya. He died after being shot in the head.

Zondani and the suspect fled the scene, and Zondani fired a number of shots at Mantashe.

National police commissioner General Riah Phiyega welcomed the sentence, saying it would send a strong message that there was justice in South Africa.

She said the number of police killings in the province had dropped since last year, and Johannesburg had the highest number.

“September being safety month, we indeed welcome the sentence. There is still justice in this country. Killers shall be brought to book. We welcome the sentencing,” Phiyega said.

siyavuya.mzantsi@inl.co.za