Mamelodi cop killer Ephraim Makoko sentenced to 25 years
The Pretoria High Court has sentenced 29-year-old Ephraim Lonwabo Makoko to an effective 25 years in prison for the June 2023 murder of Hawks Sergeant Leka Philip Maja during a shootout in Mamelodi.
Ephraim Lonwabo Makoko, aged 29, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of a Hawks officer, Sergeant Leka Philip Maja, during a shootout in Mamelodi in June 2023. The court in Pretoria delivered the verdict on Tuesday, following Makoko's appearance before the judge. The incident took place on June 8, 2023, when Hawks responded to information about suspects allegedly possessing illegal, high-calibre rifles at a residence in the Mamelodi Lusaka Informal Settlement.
A shootout ensued when the officers arrived, resulting in Maja's fatal injury. Makoko was arrested and faced charges in court multiple times prior to his sentencing. In addition to the 25-year sentence for murder, Makoko received concurrent 15-year terms for attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The sentence will essentially mean Makoko serves 25 years behind bars.
Furthermore, Makoko was declared ineligible to own firearms. Lieutenant-General Siphesihle Nkosi, the Acting National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, praised the diligent and professional efforts of the investigating officer and prosecutor, which ultimately led to Makoko's conviction and sentencing.
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