By Thys Khiba – Oscar Maroga has been sentenced to life term and 12 years direct imprisonment for gang related murder in Eeresterust, in the City of Tshwane.
The Pretoria High Court heard that Maroga is a drug user who stays in a house where drugs are sold.
29-year-old was convicted of the murder of Addry Simon Appels, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Appeals was shot dead while standing in a yard at a house in Eesterust on 02 September.
“On 02 September the deceased, together with the complainant in the matter, were in a yard at a house in Eesterust.
“While standing, Moraga and his former accused, who has since passed on, approached and fired multiple shots at them. Appels and the complainant were shot and Appels died on arrival in hospital,” said Gauteng NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana.
The accused was arrested on 08 September 2021 after investigations were completed. He was later released on bail on 06 December 2021.
Maroga was however rearrested on 12 July 2022 after he was found in possession of an unlawful firearm.
Court Proceedings:
He pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
He told the court that on the day of the incident he was on his way to buy drugs and his deceased co-accused is the one that shot the complainant and killed Appels.
In an attempt to get reduced sentence, Maroga asked the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence and impose a sentence of 20 years since he has already spent some time in custody.
In their argument, the State prosecutor, Advocate MokautuMasilo reminded the court that the time spent in custody was his own doing, and while released on bail on this matter, he decided to commit another crime.
“He also told the court that Maroga showed no remorse for his actions and therefore asked the court to impose a sentence of life imprisonment.”
Judge Masopa shared the same view with the State that Marogadid not express any remorse for forgiveness. The judge said the manner in which the crimes were committed shows that Marogahas no respect for human life.
The sentenced given will used be used to Maroga a chance to be a changed person who respects the law.
saps
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