Life Imprisonment for Limpopo Farm Murder
The Polokwane High Court has sentenced three men to life imprisonment for a farm murder following a botched robbery.
The Polokwane High Court has convicted and sentenced Malesela Albert Mangena (35) of Mabotja Extension 45, Velly Segwale (35), and Lesiba Solly Segwale (45) of Mmotong Mokgokong village, to life imprisonment for murder.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the men were also sentenced to an additional 42 years’ imprisonment for multiple related offences.
The three men were found guilty on charges of conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravating circumstances, murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlicensed ammunition.
During the trial, the three pleaded not guilty to all charges.
“The court heard that on 07 October 2022, the trio conspired to commit a robbery at Derdekraal Farm. Upon arrival, they entered the house and held a 15-year-old boy at gunpoint, demanding money and the safe keys. They handcuffed the boy and began looting valuable items.
“When the farm owner, Nicolaas Johannes Janse van Rensburg, and his partner arrived, the accused ordered them to sit down. An altercation ensued, during which Van Rensburg was shot and killed,” the NPA said in a statement.
The accused fled the scene but were later arrested following a thorough police investigation and remained in custody until the finalisation of their trial.
In aggravation of sentence, State Advocate Norman Makhubele called two key witnesses. Kobus Delange, representing South African commercial farmers, testified about the critical role farmers play in food security, employment, and the national economy.
He also highlighted the alarming rise in violent attacks on farmers. Taleza van Rensburg, the sister of the deceased, provided emotional testimony on the devastating impact of the murder on the family and farmworkers.
She noted that livestock had to be sold due to safety concerns, resulting in job losses and the eventual closure of the farm.
ALSO READ : Foot and Mouth Disease Contained in Limpopo
The prosecution argued that the crime was premeditated and executed with extreme violence. The accused had previous convictions for robbery and showed no remorse.
The court agreed with the state’s submission that there were no substantial or compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence.
Advocate Ivy Thenga, Director of Public Prosecutions in the Limpopo Division, welcomed the sentence.
“The NPA remains committed to delivering justice for victims of violent crimes, especially those murdered in cold blood for their belongings. I commend Advocate Makhubele and all the stakeholders involved in securing this conviction and sentence,” she said.
The court further declared the accused unfit to possess firearms under