DURBAN - THE suspect who allegedly solicited hit men to murder a K9 unit policeman in uMlazi apparently hired an Uber taxi as the getaway car for the officer’s killers. This emerged on Monday in the uMlazi Magistrate’s Court where Siphindile “Danah” Sithole faced a charge of conspiracy to commit murder.
During her bail application, the court heard how Sithole had allegedly hired an Uber driver for the alleged killers.
Hawks investigating officer Detective Warrant Officer Gonasagren Padayachee told the court that Sithole accompanied the two alleged hitmen who shot and killed Sergeant Siyabonga Radebe three weeks ago.
According to the information he had gathered, he testified that Sithole had conspired to kill Radebe because he once arrested her and confiscated alcohol she was selling without a licence.
He also revealed that Sithole had told him that in March her car had been stolen and she alleged that the car was seen being driven by Radebe in the Durban CBD.
“The suspect was aggrieved which we believe was the reason why she allegedly orchestrated the police officer’s murder,” said Padayachee.
“I’m opposed to bail because the State witnesses said they feared for their lives if she was released on bail.”
Padayachee also testified that the suspect confirmed to him that she was selling alcohol and had bought herself a car with the proceeds from the alcohol sales.
While cross-examing Padayachee, Sithole’s defence attorney Andile Dakela disputed this and said the alcohol found in her house by Sergeant Radebe was for Sithole’s own consumption.
He said there was no evidence that his client would interfere with witnesses if she was released.
The matter was adjourned until Thursday when Magistrate Asheena Bacharam would make a decision on bail.
Sithole was the only suspect in the case after the one alleged hitman, Nhlakanipho Brian Zulu, was shot and killed by police during arrest at W-section in uMlazi two weeks ago.
Another suspect, who was found with Sithole at the time of her arrest while allegedly celebrating Radebe’s murder, was released as there was no evidence linking him to the murder.
Police were still searching for another suspect who was still at large.
Sergeant Radebe, who was buried on Sunday, was shot several times by the two suspects who entered the Cibane tavern. He was rushed to Prince Mshiyeni Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Daily News