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Polokwane High Court jails 4 men for Limpopo crime spree

Published

Three men received life terms plus 145 years each, and a fourth got 45 years, for robbery, kidnapping, murder and rape. The crimes began with the hijacking of a motorist who gave them a lift in Majeje Village in 2023.

The three men are Justice Ngobeni, Mohale Chris Ngobeni and Joel Mawasha. The fourth man, Moilakgomo Tebogo Mohale, got 45 years. The hijacking at Majeje Village happened on 10 October 2023. The victim who died was David Refilwe Katjedi.

The court convicted the three men on seven counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and two counts of kidnapping. The court heard the state's case that the accused used the hijacked vehicle to target other victims. The state also said they withdrew money with the victims' bank cards.

State advocate George Makhudu said the accused showed no remorse. He said no substantial and compelling circumstances justified a sentence below the prescribed minimum.

Limpopo director of public prosecutions Ivy Thenga welcomed the sentences. She said they sent a strong message that those who commit violent and organised crimes will be prosecuted vigorously.

Key facts

Who
Justice Ngobeni (accused, sentenced to life terms and 145 years); Mohale Chris Ngobeni (accused, sentenced to life terms and 145 years); Joel Mawasha (accused, sentenced to life terms and 145 years); Moilakgomo Tebogo Mohale (accused, sentenced to 45 years)
What
Three men were sentenced to life imprisonment and a further 145 years, and Moilakgomo Tebogo Mohale was sentenced to 45 years, for a crime spree that began with the hijacking of a motorist who had offered them a lift in Majeje Village in 2023.
When
23 October 2026
Where
Polokwane, Majeje Village, Limpopo
Status
Reported

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