In a shocking case that has captured the community’s attention, Ngwako Elvis Selowa-Makhotoka, a 31-year-old businessman and pastor of Jesus Christ Grace Ministries in Kuranta village, Bolobedu area, was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Polokwane High Court. Selowa faced charges of murder, illegal possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, and attempting to defeat the administration of justice.
The Crime
On August 7, 2021, Thabiso Lethube Masie and her friend drove home from Shikiming village in Limpopo. They encountered Selowa and his friend, who pretended their vehicle had broken down and needed assistance. Masie, who knew Selowa, stopped to help. When she approached, Selowa shot her five times.
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Cover-Up Attempt
After the shooting, Selowa fled the scene. To cover up his crime, he instructed his friend to mislead the police about the identity of the shooter and to clean the deceased’s vehicle of any fingerprints and gun residue using methylated spirit. However, his friend later became a state witness.
The Trial
During the trial, the court heard that Selowa and his friend had gone to buy beer before returning to Selowa’s home. Selowa revealed his plan to his friend, stating he had a “job to do” and was armed. They staged the vehicle breakdown knowing Masie would pass by.
When she stopped to help, Selowa shot her multiple times. Masie was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Selowa was arrested two months later at a filling station near Polokwane.
Sentencing
State advocate Muneiwa Ratshibvumo argued that contract killings are prevalent and demanded harsh sentences to deter such crimes. She emphasized the lack of mitigating circumstances that would warrant a lighter sentence.
Judge Maake Francis Kganyago, in delivering the sentence, condemned Selowa’s actions, stating that he was an “evil man who hides behind a pulpit, a wolf disguised in sheep’s clothing.”
The court noted the calculated nature of the murder and Selowa’s lack of remorse. Despite his age, the court found no evidence that his youth played a role in the crime.
Selowa was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, five years for illegal possession of a firearm, two years for possession of ammunition, and one year for attempting to defeat the administration of justice. The sentences for counts two to four will run concurrently with the life sentence.
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Community Reaction
Advocate Ivy Thenga, Director of Public Prosecutions, welcomed the sentence, expressing hope that it would send a clear message to other criminals. She also congratulated advocate Ratshibvumo and investigating officer Eric Mathebula of Mokwakwaila police station for their efforts in securing the conviction.
This case has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the importance of justice and the severe consequences of such heinous crimes.
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