Justice for Friedel Filter, farm killers convicted
"While it has taken some time, two and a half years later, in fact, the law has taken its course. Justice still has teeth..."
JUSTICE…
To the English dictionary, a system of law in which every person receives his/her/its due from the system. To the average, law-abiding South African citizen, the first word that springs to mind when farm attackers are convicted of their crimes, such as the senseless murder of an elderly man in a small farming community.
Tuesday morning saw justice rained down upon the two men responsible for the 2016 murder of 77-year-old Friedel Filter on his Lüneberg farm on May 13 as they appeared in Madadeni High Court to face the consequences of their crime.
Sthembiso Domoyi Shoba (30) and Sabelo Abel Shoba (29) were charged and convicted of murder, attempted murder and aggravated robbery, two and a half years after they robbed and murdered Friedel Filter, gunning him down in his home and fleeing the scene of their heinous crime in the victim’s own vehicle. The vehicle was later recovered. During their daring escape, they also shot a 20-year-old farm worker, who survived the ordeal.
A third suspect, Bheki Sthembiso Simelane, turned state witness and, after testifying in a satisfactory manner to the court regarding the particulars of this case, was subsequently indemnified of prosecution with regard to any charges in this matter.
A fourth suspect is still at large.
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Accused number one, Sthembiso Domoyi Shoba, was sentenced to life imprisonment on one charge of murder, ten years imprisonment for attempted murder and fifteen years for the charge of robbery with aggravating circumstances. Accused number two, Sabelo Abel Shoba, was sentenced to life imprisonment on one charge of murder, and fifteen years combined for the charge of attempted murder and the charge of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“I am extremely happy about this outcome,” reports Investigating Officer, Captain Attie Engelbrecht. “I am happy for the team and all the work that they have put into this investigation and I am happy for the family that we were able to catch these bastards. While it has taken some time, two and a half years later, in fact, the law has taken its course,” he adds. “Justice still has teeth…”
“We cannot bring back life,” he concludes. “But we certainly hope that this will bring some closure for the family of the deceased.”
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