KWAZULU-NATAL – On 18 July 2023, the Mthunzini High Court sentenced 34-year-old Philani Yako to 25 years for killing Sergeant Nkosinathi Phindokuhle Ngcobo (41) in August 2021. Sgt Ngcobo was driving a police van at KwaNdaya Reserve when a group of men fired several shots, fatally wounding him. They also robbed him of his service firearm, ammunition, cellphone and wallet.
The incident was reported to Esikhaleni police and the docket was assigned to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in Richards Bay for further handling. Yako was arrested a week later at KwaMsane policing precinct by the team of the Hawks, Empangeni Local Criminal Record Centre, King Cetshwayo District Task Team and the National Political Task Team whilst in possession of an unlicensed firearm which was later linked to Sgt Ngcobo’s murder.
Further Hawks’ investigation led to the arrest of four men; Lungani Mkhize, Njabulo Mazibuko, Xolani Mlotshwa, and Siphelele Gwala. They are still on trial in the Mtubatuba High Court which will run until 18 August 2023. During the arrest, Mkhize was found in possession of Sgt Ngcobo’s service firearm. The accused are facing charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, illegal possession of firearm and ammunition.
Yako was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment for murder, 10 years imprisonment for robbery, 10 years imprisonment for illegal possession of firearm and three years for illegal possession of ammunition. The sentences will run concurrently.