Rhulani Herbert Maringa (44) was sentenced by the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court after being found guilty of livestock theft. He was also declared incompetent to own a firearm. (Photo: Provided)
A policeman attached to the police unit for livestock theft and endangered species in Cullinan has been sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for livestock theft to the value of R80 000.
Rhulani Herbert Maringa (44) was sentenced by the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court after being found guilty of livestock theft. He was also declared incompetent to own a firearm.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in 2019 two accused stole cattle from the Zonderwater Correctional Services in Cullinan on the instructions of Constable Maringa.
A case was filed after the police received a tip from a farmer to whom the stolen cattle had been sold. When the two men later returned to collect payment, they were arrested.
After their arrest, the accused cooperated with the police and said that Maringa was involved in the planning of the crime and that he accompanied them to the Goudveld farm, where there is an abattoir and slaughterhouse.
During the trial, Maringa pleaded not guilty and denied complicity, but the regional court prosecutor, adv. Patsy Jacobs, gave convincing evidence that proved the state’s case beyond a reasonable doubt.
However, Jacobs opposed this and argued that as a member of the police, Maringa had a greater duty to prevent such offences, but rather abused his position. (Photo: Tania Heyns/Maroela Media)
Maringa’s legal representative argued that ultimately no financial loss was suffered because the cattle were recovered and returned to correctional services.
However, Jacobs opposed this and argued that as a member of the police, Maringa had a greater duty to prevent such offences, but rather abused his position.
The magistrate agreed with the state and said that “police officers are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity and that the courts have a responsibility to protect the property rights of citizens.”
The NPA welcomed the sentence and praised the police for their swift and efficient action in this “highly organized and pre-planned crime involving a police officer”.