A police officer attached to a specialised stock theft unit has been sentenced to 12 years’ direct imprisonment after being found guilty of orchestrating the theft of cattle valued at R80,000.
Rhulani Herbert Maringa, 44, who was stationed with the South African Police Service’s Cullinan Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, was convicted in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate,s Court. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The court heard that on 17 April 2019, two accomplices, who later turned State witnesses, stole cattle from Zonderwater Correctional Services in Cullinan on Maringa’s instructions.
NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana says the scheme was uncovered after police received a tip-off from a farmer who had purchased the stolen cattle valued at R80 000. The suspects were arrested when they returned to collect payment.
“Upon their arrest, the two accused cooperated with the police and told the police that Maringa was involved in the planning of the offence,” Mahanjana said.
Despite pleading not guilty, Maringa was convicted after the State presented what prosecutors described as compelling evidence.
“Regional Court Prosecutor, Advocate Patsy Jacobs, presented compelling evidence that proved the State’s case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Mahanjana said.
In mitigation, Maringa’s defence argued for a lighter sentence, claiming there was no financial loss as the cattle had been recovered and returned. However, the State rejected this argument, stressing the seriousness of the offence given Maringa’s role in law enforcement.
Advocate Jacobs argued that Maringa “had a heightened duty to prevent such crimes and had instead abused his position,” urging the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence.
In handing down judgment, the magistrate agreed with the State, highlighting the responsibility of police officers to uphold the law.
The court “emphasising that police officers are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and that the courts have a responsibility to protect the property rights of citizens.”
The NPA welcomed the sentence, describing the crime as highly organised and premeditated.
“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence and commends the prompt and effective response by the police in this highly organised and premeditated offence involving a police official,” Mahanjana added.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
