WATCH: ‘Justice has been served’, says murdered actor’s family
Five men found guilty of the murder of former Tuks player and Rhythm City actor Dumisani ‘Dumi’ Masilela were sentenced by the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on Wednesday, to life in prison.
“Justice has been served,” said late sportsman and actor Dumisani “Dumi” Masilela’s family after five men, convicted for his murder, began serving their life imprisonment sentences on Wednesday.
After four years of Masilela’s family following police investigations and prosecutions of the men behind the former Tuks player’s murder, the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria wrapped up the trial this week.
Masilela, who was an actor on the Rhythm City drama series, was shot on August 2, 2017, during an attempted hijacking by the group of men in Tembisa.
Bongani John Masombuka (37), Sfundo Harrison Nkosi (33), Khumbudzo Solomon Mukhuba (31), Brian Makhubedu (27), and Mashudu Malema (34) were all sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder by Judge Mokhine Papi Mosopa.
After the sentence was handed down, Masilela’s family and friends were in tears.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Masilela’s uncle Tumelo Mogase said for them it was an end to a long journey and that “justice was served.”
Mogase said the family was pleased how Mosopa presided over the case, they were also grateful to the police and investigating officers involved in solving the case of his nephew’s death.
“It was through their work that this matter was finalised in a manner it has. We want to thank them for what they have done,” he said.
“Justice was served and we are satisfied. We are glad how it was conducted in terms of the sentencing.”
Mogase said the family was still emotionally traumatised by Masilela’s death. He said Masilela’s mother Sabatha was diagnosed with depression after her son’s death.
“She was not able to work after what happened. It is a miracle that she is still standing today. Nobody can understand how she managed to, it’s unbelievable,’ Masoga said.
“It has been a long journey for my sister, but we are grateful as a family to God for preserving her throughout.”
Mogase said the sentencing brought closure to the family.
“I was never able to cry during his funeral but today I could – it was the first time that I broke down,” he said.
“Today was a closure for me as an uncle and I think it was the same for my sister. We pray that God gives her strength.”
On Tuesday, Khumbudzo Solomon Mukhuba, who was identified as the shooter by his accomplice, claimed that he was innocent.
NPA regional Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana also welcomed the sentence.
“The prosecutor, advocate Josie van der Westhuizen, asked the court to impose the minimum prescribed sentence as the accused failed to show remorse for the crimes they committed. We are glad the judge imposed that sentence.”
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