In a landmark judgment, Mandisa Ngcobo (30), Mthobisi Makhathini (28), and Sanele Phetha (40) have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of twelve individuals in Kwa Mpande, Pietermaritzburg.
The court found the trio guilty of multiple counts of murder and sexual assault.
According to court records, the horrifying incident occurred when the accused stormed into a house in Kwa Mpande where a group of men, commonly referred to as “amaphara,” were reportedly inhaling substances.
The attackers forced their victims to strip naked, robbed them of their money, and ordered them to engage in sexual acts with each other.
When the victims refused, they were doused with petrol and set on fire.
The victims of this heinous crime were identified as Thobani Ngubane, Zuzani Praise-Lord Zondi, Sduduzo Nkomo, Nkanyiso Dlamini, Mthokozisi Madlala, Butho Shelembe, Nkosinathi Handsome Mtolo, Siyabonga, Reginald Madondo, Patrick Thembinkosi Dlamini, Sandile Ngcobo, Patrick Samkelo Zondi, and Jabulani Ntuli. Three other individuals were present but managed to survive the ordeal.
The trial shed light on the gruesome details of the crime, with witnesses recounting the terror and brutality experienced by the victims.
The sentencing judge described the acts committed by Ngcobo, Makhathini, and Phetha as “inhuman and barbaric,” emphasizing the need for harsh penalties to serve as a deterrent for such atrocities.
This case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the pervasive issue of violent crime and the need for stronger measures to protect citizens.
The families of the victims expressed relief at the sentencing, though the pain of their loss remains immeasurable.
Authorities have called for increased vigilance and community cooperation to prevent future incidents of this nature.
The Pietermaritzburg community continues to mourn the tragic loss of life while seeking solace in the justice served.
For more updates on this case and other news, follow our coverage on Top Stories247 Mzansi news.
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