A 44-YEAR-OLD cop from Vuwani in Limpopo will spend the festive season in jail for allegedly killing the son of his landlord.
Nditsheni Mphephu, stationed at the Thohoyandou Police Station, appeared for the second time in the Thohoyandou Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 29 November, with the case being postponed to 29 February 2024.
Nditsheni was initially charged with attempted murder, and the accused now faces a murder charge after the victim died on Saturday, 25 November.
Angry residents from Makwarela protested against the suspect being granted bail.
The court heard that the victim, Ntakadzeni Muthige, confronted the suspect about playing loud music outside the rented residence, disturbing pupils preparing for exams.
An argument ensued, leading to the suspect firing shots at the victim before fleeing. The victim was hospitalised with severe gunshot wounds.
The gruesome incident happened in Makwarela Block A in zone 1 on Monday, 20 November.
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After the shooting, the suspect fled to his home in Vuwani Village and was arrested on Tuesday, 21 November. He made his first court appearance the same day.
Community leader Tovhowani Seemise told Daily Sun that the village has been deeply affected by Ntakadzen's murder.
"We are deeply concerned as a community because the life of an innocent soul fighting for the rights of our future leaders was cut short by an irresponsible police officer. We are hoping that he gets a hefty sentence," he said.
NPA spokeswoman Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said: "The case was postponed to 29 February 2024 for further investigation."
Muthige's family members expressed their unavailability to comment on the matter at this time.
