Suspect wanted for officer’s murder

THE Hawks have issued a warrant of arrest for Luzuko Eric Yalezo, 36, in connection with the murder of a police officer.

Yalezo allegedly stabbed and killed off-duty police Sergeant Sakhumzi Mbucela, 40, on August 12 in Gugulethu. Mbucela, who was stationed at the Wynberg Vispol, was stabbed during an apparent robbery on August 12. He was admitted to hospital, where he died on August 14.

Hawks spokesperson Bonnie Nxumalo said the warrant for Yalezo’s arrest was issued through the court. He was suspected of also shooting and killing a 36-year-old witness in the matter a few days ago. Nxumalo said Yalezo was believed to be in informal settlements in Barcelona or Europe in Gugulethu, or in the Lusaka area of Nyanga.

Yalezo was arrested in a separate matter, over the theft of a motor vehicle, in February but failed to return to court, which was being investigated by police, she said. “The investigation of the murder case prompted the issuing of the warrant for his arrest.”

Nyanga Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Martin Makhasi said if Yalezo was suspected of killing Mbucela, the police should use all resources to track him down.

Makhasi said they needed to circulate information to communities to ensure awareness and co-operation.

Provincial CPF board chairperson Fransina Lukas called on the community to assist police in apprehending the alleged perpetrator. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop anonymously at 08600 10111 or investigating officer Sergeant Zaliseka Hlatshaneni on 082 479 6265 or the police via the MySAPSApp.