The father of the 11-month-old boy who was caught in the crossfire between suspected rival gangs in Windmill Park last year January has welcomed the conviction of his son’s killers.
The little boy, Siyabonga Buthelezi, died in hospital after he was shot by a stray bullet at his grandmother’s house on January 2.
At the time of the incident, the boy was visiting his grandmother in Windmill Park for the holidays, along with his four siblings.
According to Dawn Park SAPS spokesperson Const Nkemeleng Mabula, two men exited a white VW Polo and started shooting at a man who was walking.
“A shoot-out ensued between the three men and unfortunately an 11-month-old baby who was being carried by his sister was shot. Two of the men fled the scene, but the police arrested the suspect who was walking,” she said. The suspect was shot in the leg.
On February 15, Lehlohonolo Mokoena (26) was convicted and sentenced to 40 years in prison at Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court.
He faced charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of live ammunition.
On the charge of murder, Mokoena was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment, on the charge of attempted murder he received five years and on the charge of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of live ammunition, an additional seven and three years, respectively. The sentences will run concurrently.
Siyabonga’s father, Schoeman Buthelezi, said he was happy his son’s killer has been put behind bars even though his conviction won’t bring his son back.
“I’m pleased he was sentenced to 40 years but even though he was sentenced 10 years it wouldn’t change anything because my son is dead. It breaks my heart that I won’t ever see him again,” Buthelezi said.
Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit officer Det Sgt Herbert Brand secured the conviction.
Mabula shared with the Advertiser that the other two suspects are still at large.
Also Read: Siyabonga Buthelezi’s funeral- In pictures
Also Read: Watch: 11-month-old boy fatally shot by suspected rival gangs
