“We found a gun when we searched his room” — SAPS investigator implicates suspect in court

The trial against five men accused of killing Senzo Meyiwa continued at the Pretoria High Court this morning. A new witness, Sgt Mandla Masondo, affiliated with the organized crime division dealing with taxi violence, has been called to testify. Sgt Masondo narrated his involvement in a case in Alexandra from 2015, particularly concerning accused three, Mthobisi Carlos Mncube.

Detailing the investigation, Sgt Masondo explained, “Although we were initially unaware of Mncube’s residence, we decided to tail him. Subsequently, we requested access to his room, which he granted. Consent was also given for a search, marking the beginning of our examination inside his residence.” During the search, an unlicensed firearm was discovered atop a closet, accompanied by a small blue box. Sgt Masondo recounted, “The firearm was a 9mm Czech Republic pistol, loaded with a magazine containing 15 rounds. The blue box revealed an additional 12 rounds of varying calibers.”

Crucially, Mncube could not furnish a valid firearm license, prompting Sgt Masondo to inform him of the impending charge for unlawful firearm possession. The ensuing legal procedures saw Mncube detained at the Germiston jail cells until 1 am the following day. Notably, the firearm’s serial number had been deliberately erased, raising suspicions of potential illicit use.

Furthermore, Sgt Masondo detailed how he confiscated Mncube’s cellphone during the process, highlighting his dedication to preserving potential evidence. The cellphone was subsequently transferred to the “war room” for data extraction, a crucial step in piecing together the unfolding investigation.

Sgt Mandla Masondo’s testimony sheds new light on the Senzo Meyiwa case, providing crucial insights into the activities surrounding the accused individuals. As the trial progresses, these revelations hold the potential to play a pivotal role in determining the truth behind the tragic incident.