Fugitive Sought for Slain Off-Duty Police Officer Hands Himself Over

In a significant turn of events, Blessing Fakude (41), a fugitive sought by the Hawks Nelspruit based Serious Organised Crime Investigation in connection to the murder of an off-duty police officer, has surrendered himself to the investigating team. Fakude’s name had been circulating on various media platforms since April 25, 2024, following his alleged involvement in the tragic death of Captain Sibusiso Mthombothi (44) during a shootout at a Kanyamazane car wash on January 13, 2024.

Following Fakude’s surrender, the investigative team intensified their efforts, leading to the apprehension of two additional suspects, Given Sishi (38) and Bakhona Dlamini (31), who were allegedly in possession of the firearm used in the crime. Both suspects appeared before the Kanyamazane Magistrate Court on May 10, 2024, facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. They were remanded in custody pending a formal bail application scheduled for May 15, 2024.

Meanwhile, Fakude made his appearance at the Kabokweni Magistrate Court on Friday, facing charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of an unlicensed firearm. He, too, was remanded in custody with his bail application set for May 13, 2024.

Another co-accused, Jacky Sibusiso Ntiwane (Maseko) (35), previously sought for the murder of Captain Mthombothi, was apprehended on March 20, 2024, in Kanyamazane. The arrest, executed by a team comprising Nelspruit Crime Intelligence, the Provincial Tracking team, and the Tactical Respond Team, was a high-risk operation due to the suspect’s known armed status. Ntiwane appeared before the Kabokweni Magistrate Court on March 22, 2024, and subsequently opted to forego bail for his own safety. The case has been adjourned to July 24, 2024, for further investigation, with Ntiwane remaining in custody.

Brigadier William Mokonyama, Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, expressed gratitude to both the media and the community for their unwavering support in providing information about the wanted suspects. He also commended the investigative team for their dedication in pursuing leads, including the recovery of the firearm involved in the tragic incident.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the hope for justice remains steadfast, with the collective efforts of law enforcement and community collaboration serving as crucial pillars in achieving accountability for such heinous crimes.