Three Men Sentenced to Life
By Natalie Naidoo
The Polokwane High Court has sentenced three men to life imprisonment for the murder of a farm owner during a botched robbery attempt, delivering a strong message about the consequences of violent crime in South Africa. In addition to the life sentences, the trio received a combined 42 years for a series of related offenses, marking a significant victory for justice in the region.
Landmark Ruling in Polokwane High Court
In a decisive ruling, Malesela Albert Mangena, Velly Segwale, and Lesiba Solly Segwale were found guilty of murdering Nicolaas Johannes Janse van Rensburg, a farm owner, on October 7, 2022, at Derdekraal Farm. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) detailed that the men were also convicted of conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravating circumstances, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlicensed ammunition. Despite their not guilty pleas, the court’s verdict was unanimous based on the evidence presented.
The Crime: A Violent Robbery Gone Wrong
According to the NPA, the incident unfolded when the three men conspired to rob Derdekraal Farm. Upon entering the property, they encountered a 15-year-old boy, whom they held at gunpoint, demanding money and the keys to a safe. After handcuffing the boy, they began looting valuable items from the house.
The situation took a deadly turn when Van Rensburg and his partner arrived at the scene. The accused ordered the pair to sit down, but an altercation broke out, during which Van Rensburg was fatally shot. The perpetrators fled the farm but were later tracked down and arrested by law enforcement. They remained in custody throughout the trial.
Trial and Sentencing: Justice Served
The prosecution presented a compelling case, arguing that the robbery and subsequent murder were premeditated and that the accused displayed no remorse for their actions. The Polokwane High Court agreed, imposing the maximum penalty of life imprisonment for the murder charge. The additional 42-year sentences for the related crimes underscore the severity of their actions and the court’s commitment to upholding justice.
Limpopo Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Ivy Thenga, hailed the outcome as a triumph for victims of violent crime. “The NPA remains committed to delivering justice for victims of violent crimes, especially those murdered in cold blood for their belongings,” Thenga said in a statement. “I commend Advocate Makhubele and all the stakeholders involved in securing this conviction and sentence.”
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