Eastern Cape Provincial commissioner welcomed the lengthy sentences of the two accused Bulelani Bafo Zozi age 21 and Siphamandla Petse age 24 who on the 25 November 2017 entered the home of the victim, late Riaan Scheepers, on a farm in Alexandria and severely assaulted him. A firearm as well as his bakkie were taken when they fled the scene.
On the 19th December, the victim sadly did not recover and passed away. Today in the Grahamstown High Court, Judge Clive Plasket handed down the following to each of the accused:
Count 1 – House burglary with intent to rob and robbery – 5 years
Count 2 – Robbery with aggravating circumstances – 15 years
Count 3 – Murder – Life Imprisonment
Count 4 – Illegal possession of a firearm – 5 years, and
Count 5 – Illegal possession of ammunition – 2 years
The sentences will run concurrently.
Lt Gen Ntshinga said today, “I thank the community and all who have assisted in tracing the perpetrators of this crime. The team of investigators received information from several persons which was vigorously followed up.”
“The sentence yielded today is resultant from the assistance of the community, the strong relationship between the National Prosecution and the investigation team. Well done to all,” she added