Durban - A habitual burglar has been found guilty and sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Patrick Thokozani Ngidi, 44, was arrested while committing a burglary on Bluff Road, south of Durban, in September.
Police spokeswoman, Captain Louise le Roux, said a teenager, home alone, hid in a cupboard and called the police.
“When the police arrived, they found the suspect hiding in one of the bedrooms. A knife belonging to him was found under a chair in the lounge. His criminal record revealed that he was a frequent visitor to our correction facilities for lengthy periods,” said Le Roux.
She said Ngidi was previously found guilty of various crimes in Durban, including 15 counts of housebreaking, one of house robbery, one of assault and one of possession of dagga.
Brighton Beach SAPS Detective Head, Lieutenant-Colonel Jayson McGrey, praised Detective Constable Samukelo Memela, who from the outset opposed bail in a strongly worded affidavit. This ensured Ngidi remained behind bars while he carried out investigations.
“Memela’s thorough investigation revealed that Ngidi had a propensity for re-offending since 2004. He (the policeman) is a team player and continuously showcases his skills as a detective with the work he produces. This will send out a message to other repeat offenders,” McGrey said.
Daily News