Mamelodi man sentenced to life for boy’s (6) murder

The Pretoria High Court has sentenced Tinyiko Shawn Sengoane (30) from Mamelodi East to life imprisonment for the premeditated murder of six-year-old Olwethu Austin Zwane.

According to an article published by Pretoria Rekord, Sengoane was sentenced on December 6.

“On the afternoon of October 22, 2021, Sengoane called Olwethu, who was playing with other children on Molamolele Street in Mamelodi East, and offered him money to buy a packet of chips,” said Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana.

She said when the boy returned from the shops, Sengoane lured him to his residence on the same street, where he brutally stabbed him to death.

“The child’s lifeless body was discovered hours later in an outdoor storeroom by Sengoane’s uncle, who was searching for his tools,” said Mahanjana.

The police were called, and Sengoane was arrested at the scene.

He has been in custody since his bail was successfully opposed by the NPA.

During the trial, Sengoane pleaded not guilty, but the state presented compelling evidence, securing a conviction.

During sentencing proceedings, Sengoane requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing his status as a first-time offender and the three years he spent in custody awaiting trial.

However, state prosecutor advocate Lawrence More argued that Sengoane killed an innocent child for no apparent reason and showed no remorse as he did not disclose to the court the reasons why he killed the deceased.

More also handed in victim impact statements (VIS) facilitated by court preparation officer Leboganag Lebese. Therein both the parents of the deceased expressed how this tragedy has resulted in them being unemployed due to illnesses that arose after the death.

The deceased’s aunt, through a VIS, expressed how her health deteriorated.

Therefore, More asked the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence and impose a sentence that would send a strong message to the community.

In his judgment, Judge Papi Mosopa concurred with the state’s argument.

He noted that Sengoane had shown no remorse and had committed a heinous act against a defenceless child.

Mosopa emphasised the severity of the crime, particularly in light of ongoing government efforts to educate society about violence, especially against vulnerable groups.

He stated that the life sentence aimed to serve as a deterrent, ensuring the safety of children in Mamelodi and beyond.

“There are no compelling or substantial circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. This sentence should teach Sengoane to respect the right to life and allow children to live and play freely without fear of harm,” said Mosopa.

Mahanjana added that the NPA welcomes the life sentence and commends the court for ensuring justice for Olwethu and his family.

“The verdict comes during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, underscoring the NPA’s commitment to fighting crimes against the most vulnerable in society,” she concluded.