Teen to spend decades in jail

A teenage boy (15) will spend most of his life behind bars after being convicted of murder and sentenced to 43 years.

The sentence was handed down last Thursday by the Nongoma Regional Court after having found the boy guilty of the murder of school principal, Mphumuzeni Ntuli (60), as well as theft of a firearm, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The court heard that on 22 April 2023, the teen killed the principal at Bhekithemba High School in Nongoma.

After Ntuli was reported missing that day, police initiated an investigation. On their way back from Bhanganoma cottages where Ntuli was living, they spotted his vehicle driving along Mkhuze Road.

Upon approaching the vehicle, the suspect fled, abandoning the vehicle and fleeing on foot.

Ntuli’s body was subsequently found dumped near a riverbank under a bridge in the Odwaleni area. There were open wounds on his head and bruises all over his body.

The suspect was traced to his home at kwaSnqandi in the Toyisa area.

During his arrest, he was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition which he had stolen from the deceased.

The teenager was arrested and made several court appearances before pleading guilty to all charges.

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