Lesotho man gets 42 years for Joe Slovo Park tavern murder
The Protea Magistrate’s Court sentenced a 41-year-old Lesotho national to 42 years behind bars for the murder of Mxolisi Miya during a tavern dispute in Joe Slovo Park.
An undocumented immigrant, Mothabi Seahlolo (41), from Lesotho, was convicted and sentenced to 42 years of direct imprisonment by the Protea Magistrate’s Court on November 3.
Seahlolo was found guilty of murder, illegal immigration, and the unlawful possession of ammunition and an unlicensed firearm.
The conviction followed a heated argument between Seahlolo and the victim, Mxolisi Miya (38), at the Basotho Tavern in the Joe Slovo Park informal settlement on April 8, 2023.
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According to investigating officer Detective Sergeant Themba Maluleke from the Eldorado Park SAPS, the victim was drinking beer at the tavern when the argument ensued.
During the argument, Seahlolo reportedly called his friend to bring him a firearm to shoot a dog (the victim) that was belittling him.
“The suspect shot the victim three times – on the lower lip near his chin, his right leg and in the abdomen. The victim was rushed to the hospital and declared dead on arrival,” said Maluleke.
After the incident, Seahlolo fled and went into hiding in Carletonville. However, the investigating officer traced and arrested him there on May 21, 2023.
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His first court appearance was on May 23, 2023, and he was denied bail.
The court found him guilty on four counts:
• Twenty years for murder;
• Fifteen for possession of an unlicensed firearm;
• Five for unlawful possession of ammunition;
• Two for illegal immigration.
Eldorado Park SAPS station commander, Brigadier Mkhacani Maluleke, welcomed the conviction and commended the investigating officer for his thorough work, which ensured justice for the victim and his family.
He added that the officer deserved recognition for his commitment, noting that this was not his first conviction.
Anyone with information about illegal activities in Eldorado Park can call the SAPS on 011 946 0300 or 082 444 3001.
Alternatively, tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
