From Crime Intelligence to serving jail term for aiding escape

DURBAN Magistrate Jackie Jonk had harsh words when sentencing disgraced Crime Intelligence officer Thulani Obed Thango to three years in prison, saying there was no place for dishonesty in the police service.

- NOMONDE ZONDI

Thango was convicted of defeating the administration of justice for his role in helping ANC councillor Mthokozisi Nojiyeza evade arrest for murder. The charge stemmed from an elaborate 2018 scheme, orchestrated with now-deceased attorney Lunga Peter, to help Nojiyeza avoid apprehension by the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) for the murder of fellow councillor Sibusiso Maphumulo.

Nojiyeza was eventually found hiding in a black Audi TT at Durban Central police station, with Peter fleeing the scene.

The sentencing proceedings included a dramatic revelation from probation officer Sanelisiwe Khumalo, who testified that Thango's dishonesty derailed her initial recommendation for a noncustodial sentence.