The Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates’ Court has sentenced Rhulani Herbert Maringa (44), a police officer attached to the Cullinan Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS), to 12 years’ direct imprisonment following his conviction for stock theft valued at R80,000.
He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
NPA Regional Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana told Mo’Kasi Uncut that on 17 April 2019, two accused persons — who have since turned state witnesses — stole cattle from a farmer in Cullinan at the instruction of Constable Maringa. The matter came to light after police received a tip-off from a farmer to whom the stolen cattle had been sold. When the two individuals returned to the farm to collect payment, they were arrested.
Mahanjana said that upon their arrest, the two accused cooperated with police and implicated Maringa in the planning of the offence. They further indicated that he had escorted them to Gaudveld Farm, where there is an abattoir and butchery.
During the trial, Maringa pleaded not guilty and denied any involvement. However, Regional Court Prosecutor Advocate Patsy Jacobs presented compelling evidence that proved the State’s case beyond a reasonable doubt.
“In mitigation of sentence, Maringa, through his legal representative, asked for leniency on the basis that no financial loss was ultimately suffered, as the cattle were recovered and returned to the Department of Correctional Services. Advocate Jacobs opposed this, arguing that Maringa, as a police officer assigned to a stock theft unit, had a heightened duty to prevent such crimes but instead abused his position. She urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence,” Mahanjana said.
“In handing down the sentence, the Regional Court Magistrate agreed with the State, 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 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,” she concluded.