The Mtunzini High Court has convicted and sentenced Mduduzi Luthuli (35) and Simiso Ndebele (32) to life imprisonment for murder and 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravated circumstances for an attack on a group counting stokvel money.
A further 10 years was imposed for possession of an unlicensed weapon and two years for possession of ammunition to Mduduzi Luthuli.
The attack took place at Ezimangweni area, near Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal.
Police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbhele said on December 5, 2015, at 8.30am, seven stokvel members were in a house counting money when they were approached by two suspects who were carrying guns.
The victim, Thoko Dorack Hlatshlwayo, 57, was shot and killed and the suspects took R78 000 from the house and fled. Mbhele said community members assisted and gave chase, one accused was apprehended and handed over to the police.
The police then traced the second accused who was arrested two days later. He was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Both accused were charged with murder, robbery and a further charge of possession of an unlicensed firearm was added to Luthuli, said Mbhele.
KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Bheki Langa welcomed the sentences handed down and praised the detectives for their determination in solving the case.