More than three years after the brutal murder of Durban Metro Police captain, Zwelakhe Thomas Ntombela, the final chapter in the case has come to a close with all those responsible for orchestrating and carrying out his killing now behind bars.

On June 24, the KwaZulu-Natal High Court sentenced the remaining accused to life imprisonment, bringing to an end a case that sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the people of eThekwini.

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Cpt Ntombela was gunned down on May 3, 2023, in what investigators later established was a carefully planned murder orchestrated by individuals known to him.

The investigation uncovered a chilling conspiracy motivated by financial gain. In 2024, the officer’s wife pleaded guilty to conspiring to have her husband murdered in order to benefit from his pension payout. She was sentenced to life imprisonment.

The gunman who carried out the fatal shooting also pleaded guilty and received a 20-year prison sentence.

With the sentencing of the remaining accused, every person involved in planning and executing the murder has now been convicted.

Durban Metro Police spokesperson, Colonel Boysie Zungu, commended members of the Crime Prevention Trio Crimes Unit (SOD1) for their role in assisting the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in securing the convictions.

“This outcome demonstrates the dedication of our investigators and sends a clear message that those who target law enforcement officers will be pursued relentlessly and brought before the courts,” said Col Zungu.

He added that while no court judgment could undo the pain of losing Cpt Ntombela, the successful prosecution of all those involved offers a measure of justice for his family, colleagues and the broader policing fraternity.

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The Durban Metro Police also paid tribute to the slain officer’s years of dedicated service, describing him as a committed public servant whose sacrifice will never be forgotten.

“Justice has prevailed. Cpt Ntombela’s service, dedication and commitment to protecting the people of eThekwini will always be remembered. May his soul continue to rest in eternal peace,” said Col Zungu.