Update

GEORGE NEWS - Local traffic officer Janneké Bergman's shooter, Bonginkosi Ndevu (31) received a hefty 40-year prison sentence in the Thembalethu Regional Court last Friday, 9 June. 

At least six heavily armed prison guards, Bergman, her parents and several colleagues filled the court as Magistrate Emma Moloro handed down judgement and sentencing.

Ndevu, who shot Bergman in the face and leg near Pacaltsdorp on 7 August 2020, was found guilty on all seven charges against him - two of attempted murder, possession of illegal firearms, possession of illegal ammunition and two of pointing a firearm.

Moloro said the court did not find any substantial and compelling reasons to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentences.

Ndevu was sentenced to five years each on the attempted murder charges (charge 1 and 3). Charge 3 relates to Ndevu shooting at a police officer.

On charge 2, aggravated robbery, he was sentenced to 15 years and on charges 4, 5, 6 and 7 - possession of illegal firearms, possession of illegal ammunition and pointing of a firearm - also 15 years.

The court described Ndevu as a dangerous man with no emotion and no conscience.

Moloro said in the video depicting the shooting Ndevu walks away calmly and without emotion after he shot Bergman. "You have no regard for human life and your actions undermine the authority of the state. The victim is a woman and you took advantage of her vulnerability. The level of violence in this is very high, on another level," said Moloro.

She also referred to Bergman's victim impact statement, saying that Bergman's life will never be the same again. "She was healthy until she met her monster."

Outside court an emotional Bergman said she is pleased with the sentence and relieved that it is over. "I am happy and relieved, just so relieved that it is done," she said.

In a statement Bergman later released to George Herald she said the incident left her with deep scars that serve as constant reminders. 

"These scars remind me, as well as my friends, family, and the public, of the deteriorating incident. It not only left physical scars but also caused significant emotional and psychological trauma, affecting me deeply. Despite the passage of time bringing some healing, I continue to be profoundly impacted by this event."

She said although she is still dealing with the physical, emotional, and psychological aftermath, she remains resilient and committed to fulfilling her duties as a provincial traffic official.

"I express my gratitude to our heavenly Father for a second chance at life, the police officers, paramedics, healthcare professionals, investigating detectives, and correctional service officials. I also appreciate the support of my friends, family, and the public during this challenging time. 

"Lastly, I extend my enormous appreciation to Magistrate Moloro and the prosecutor, H Marx for their exceptional work in upholding justice. This victory is a triumph for me, my loved ones, the public, and the South African justice system." 

• Read her full statement here.

Western Cape police management lauded the investigating and prosecuting teams who worked tirelessly to ensure a successful prosecution. 

"This lengthy incarceration should serve as deterrent for those threatening the stability of the transport industry as well as safety of law enforcement officials. The safety of road users remains key to the policing approach of the province," the statement reads.

What happened on 7 August 2020

Bergman was shot when she assisted two of her colleagues during an arrest after they pulled over a silver Audi A4 in Beach Road, on the bridge near Stanmar Motors.

While officers were handcuffing Ndevu, a fight ensued during which he pulled out a firearm and shot Bergman in the knee and left cheek.

He fled the scene on foot with the handcuffs still around one wrist.

The bullet that hit Bergman's cheek exited through her neck, just above her shoulder.

Ndevu, from Khayelitsha in Cape Town, was arrested shortly afterwards when he was spotted walking along the highway. He allegedly opened fire on the two police officers who chased after him. The officers returned fire, wounding him twice.

Two firearms, one of which was Bergman's service pistol, and an undisclosed amount of cash were found in his possession.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’