| Khuma convicts get a maximum sentence | |
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| Date Published: | 2024/04/14 |
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Media Statement
POTCHEFSTROOM -The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena and the Director for Public Prosecution, Dr Rachel Makhari welcome the life term handed down by the Stilfontein Regional Court on Thursday, 11 April 2024, to Thabiso Matthews (35) and Simon Tshimo (37) for the murder of Mafooa Gift Fana Phushudi (28). The convicts were further declared unfit to possess firearms in terms of section 103 of the Firearm Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000). Evidence led in court indicated that police were called to a house in Extension 9, Khuma Location on Thursday, 9 July 2020, where Phushudi’s body was found, lying face down in the living area with hands and feet tied up. The post mortem revealed that he died due to strangulation. The meticulous prosecution led investigations, resulted in the arrest of the duo, only a few days after the incident. They made their first court appearance on 13 July 2020 and their bail applications were successfully opposed. In addressing the court on sentence; the Prosecutor, Mr Kok put the following aggravating circumstances before the court: That the accused committed a heinous offence, which shocked the members of the community at large and that must be given a sentence that will serve as a deterrence.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena and Dr Makhari applauded the Investigation Officer, Warrant Officer Ettienne Fourie of Khuma Detectives as well as Mr Chris Kok, for their collaboration that resulted in the conviction. They further pointed out that the sentence, which was secured through collective efforts by the entities, will definitely send a clear message that those who commit crime will not be tolerated.
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