| 2024/11/28 |
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Media Statement HARRISMITH – Five men were involved in a brutal farm attack and subsequent murder and were successfully convicted and sentenced to a total of 205 years imprisonment. The five suspects were found guilty on multiple charges, including housebreaking, robbery, kidnapping, and murder. On 23 July 2023, the victim, Mr. Peterson Michael Andrew (65), was attacked at his farm, Summerslie, by five male suspects. The attackers stole valuable items, including laptops, cameras, a cellphone, and a Toyota Urban Cruiser. The victim was then forced into the boot of his vehicle and transported to the Tseseng area in Qwaqwa, where he was tragically murdered. The accused, Teboho Mothebedi (22), Jabulane Ngcongwane (44), Bheki Maphalala (18), Lephosa Motaung (26) and Siyabonga Khumalo (22) were arrested the following day and the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Murder and Robbery Unit took over the investigation. Each of the suspects was sentenced to three years imprisonment for housebreaking with the intent to steal, 12 years imprisonment for aggravated robbery, six years imprisonment for kidnapping and 20 years imprisonment for the murder of Mr Andrew. Count 1 and 2 will run concurrently and count 3 and 4 will run concurrently. The prosecutor was Mrs Georgi and the presiding officer was Mr Mlambe, thanked the Phuthaditjhaba police, Phuthaditjhaba TRT, Colonel Ben Bolsiek and Lieutenant Colonel James Mahlatsi for their support during the trial in the Free State High Court sitting in Harrismith. “This case highlights the commitment of the South African Police Service in ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable for their actions. The police remain steadfast in their mission to ensure the safety and security of all communities. We extend our gratitude to all the role players involved for their tireless work and exemplary leadership throughout this investigation,” said the Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane. Ends
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