The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a Protection and Security Services Sergeant who recklessly endangered lives in Mpumalanga.
A 32-year-old officer, Sergeant Martin Twala, was sentenced by the Kwanyamazane Magistrate’s Court to five years’ imprisonment for attempted murder and two years for negligent discharge of a firearm. The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently, meaning Twala will effectively serve five years behind bars. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The incident occurred on 11 January 2020 when Twala, under the influence of alcohol, discharged his service firearm towards a group of people while driving along the Main Road in Kanyamazane. One man, identified as Ngoako Mbokane, sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach. Twala fled the scene after instructing the victims not to open a case and later attempted to falsely report a carjacking against them.
IPID investigated the matter thoroughly, leading to Twala’s arrest and subsequent conviction.
IPID spokesperson Lizzy Suping commented:
“This sentence sends a strong message that law enforcement officers are not above the law. The reckless actions of Sergeant Twala could have cost an innocent life, and such behaviour will never be tolerated. IPID remains committed to ensuring accountability and restoring public trust in policing.”
The conviction underscores IPID’s mandate to uphold justice and protect communities from unlawful conduct by members of the police service.
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