5 years for murder outrages community
Sergeant Ntsako Mabunda secured the conviction some say was not severe enough.
The community of Joe Slovo informal settlement is dissatisfied with the recent sentence given to Nomthandazo Laphuma (57), who the court found guilty of murdering her boyfriend, Jonga Makwedinana (48), in 2019.
The Vosloorus Magistrate’s Court sentenced Laphuma to five years behind bars, which many residents believe was too lenient.
According to the spokesperson for the Reiger Park Police Station, Constable Johannes Msimanga, the murder happened on March 31, 2019, during the early hours at Laphuma’s home in Joe Slovo.
“The couple had allegedly been at a tavern before an altercation erupted between them.
“Although the motive behind their argument remains unclear, it was reported that Makwedinana punched Laphuma, who retaliated by stabbing him multiple times, three times in the chest and once in the neck until he collapsed.”
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Assigned the case, Sergeant Ntsako Mabunda led the investigation and secured the conviction. However, community members and acquaintances feel the punishment did not fit the crime.
A community member, who chose to remain anonymous, described Makwedinana as a decent man working in Germiston as a car guard.
“Makwendinana and Laphuma used to fight, especially after having a few drinks.
“Nomthandazo was known to be violent. I believe five years is not an appropriate sentence, considering how brutally he was murdered. She deserved more time behind bars.”
More frustration stems from the fact that Laphuma reportedly moved on with another partner shortly after the incident, which some see as a lack of remorse.
The source said Makwedinana’s family, known to be deeply spiritual, responded to the verdict through prayer rather than protest.
As the case continues to spark debate, the community remains divided on whether justice was served. Some residents want a sentencing review, while others believe the matter stays in the hands of the law.
The Boksburg Advertiser requested comment from the National Prosecuting Authority but received none by the time of going to press.
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