Gqeberha: The Gqeberha High Court has handed down a significant sentence to Luthando Bafani, who was convicted for a series of serious crimes, including possession of unlicensed firearms and murder. The conviction and sentencing took place on July 18, 2025, culminating in a lengthy legal process stemming from a violent incident that occurred on July 19, 2022, in KwaZakhele.
According to South African Police Service, Bafani was implicated in a harrowing crime on Mahambehlala Street, where he fatally shot two brothers, Siyabonga and Bagcinile Sitho, after stealing two cellphones. The murder of the Sitho brothers occurred at the scene, marking a tragic day for the community. Bafani's criminal activities led to a warrant for his arrest, and he was subsequently apprehended and first appeared in New Brighton Magistrate Court on July 25, 2023. His case, involving multiple charges, was later transferred to Gqeberha High Court, where he appeared on July 23, 2024.
On July 18, 2025, Acting Judge Mr. Lindoor sentenced Bafani to 20 years each for two counts of murder, 15 years for aggravated robbery, 7 years for possession of an unlicensed firearm, and 5 years for possession of unlicensed ammunition. This decisive sentencing underscores the gravity of the crimes committed and the judicial system's commitment to justice.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, lauded the efforts of Sgt Phakamile Mndaweni, Sgt Nigel Wright, and Constable Lelaan Scholtz for their diligent investigation and successful prosecution of the case. "This conviction and sentence emphasized the effectiveness and dedication of our Detectives in investigating criminal conduct which endangered the safety of the community and in bringing the perpetrators thereof to justice," remarked Major General Kupiso.