On April 2, the Barberton Regional Court convicted and sentenced two men for robbery with aggravating circumstances and attempted murder following an attack on a local tavern owner.

The provincial spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Monica Nyuswa, said Thabo Mpila (19) received 15 years’ direct imprisonment, while Phumusa Mathebula (21) was sentenced to 30 years in prison.

“On the evening of January 29, the victim was on his way home after closing his tavern in Barberton’s Ext 16 when he was confronted by the perpetrators. The two men demanded the day’s earnings. The victim informed them that the money was inside the tavern and offered to retrieve it, but the accused refused, aware that an alarm system was installed. Instead, Mathebula drew a firearm and shot the victim in the lower body before robbing him of his cellphone and fleeing the scene. The victim was later transported to a local hospital for medical treatment,” she said.

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Nyuswa also said during the police investigation the victim identified his attackers, leading to their arrest. The court denied them bail. Despite pleading not guilty, Prosecutor Michael Mazibuko presented strong evidence, including the victim’s testimony detailing the incident and the role each accused played. The victim also identified them as regular patrons of his tavern. A medical report confirming his injuries was submitted as well.

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“In aggravation of sentence, the prosecution presented a victim impact report, which revealed that he had become the recipient of a disability grant due to the injuries he sustained. Considering their roles in the crime, the court sentenced Mpila to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances. Mathebula received 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances and an additional 15 years for attempted murder, totalling 30 years,” she said.

Nyuswa said the NPA welcomes the sentence and remains committed to ensuring justice for victims of violent crime. “Every day, the NPA prosecutes numerous cases that impact the safety and well-being of our communities, reaffirming our dedication to upholding the rule of law.”