A notorious criminal who has been causing fear in the community of northern KwaZulu Natal has been sentenced to over 53 years in prison. Sipho Mhlanga was found guilty on ten charges, including kidnapping, murder, and aggravated robbery.

SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said that Mhlanga was apprehended in August 2023 and was linked to a syndicate involved in smuggling hijacked and stolen vehicles from South Africa to Mozambique through various borders in KZN. "Mhlanga has been in custody since his arrest and was convicted on 19 June 2024 for 10 charges, which include murder, aggravated robbery, and kidnapping. In June 2023, Mhlanga's accomplice, Vusi Amos Malwane, was sentenced to 55 years in prison by the Ingwavuma Magistrates Court," she stated.

Mathe stated that the task team deployed in February 2023 to Emanguzi has arrested 276 suspects, with 107 still in police custody. "150 vehicles that were either stolen or hijacked have been recovered, with the majority being 4 x 4 vehicles,". Mathe mentioned that during this time, 93 SUVs and/or 4x4 vehicles and 57 sedans were recovered. 135 of these vehicles have been returned to their rightful owners. "Over 70 illegal and unlicensed firearms were also seized, including 14 rifles. There is a collaborative action plan between the Mozambique police and the South African Police Service to address transnational crime in both countries. "The joint action plan aims to ensure a dedicated team from both countries meet regularly to conduct joint cross-border operations to prevent and combat cross-border vehicle smuggling, kidnappings, and stock theft," she explained.