Giyani: A 46-year-old tavern owner, Tinyiko Kenneth Hlungwani, and his co-accused, Tinyiko Solly Sithole (44), have each been sentenced to life imprisonment following their conviction for the murder of two men. This verdict was delivered by the Giyani Regional Court on Wednesday.
According to South African Police Service, the incident dates back to Saturday, 26 June 2017, during a snooker tournament at a tavern in Sifasonke village, involving players from Jimu village and Nkurhi Sifasonke village. An altercation began when one player, who had left to fetch a jacket, was robbed of cash and cellphones by two individuals. Upon reporting the robbery, the tavern owner accused three men from Jimu village of the crime, leading to their assault within the tavern.
The situation escalated when the accused and others took the three victims to a local soccer field. While one victim managed to escape, the remaining two were subjected to a brutal attack. Their backpacks revealed dangerous weapons, which were subsequently
used to mutilate them.
Police and emergency services were called to the chaotic scene, finding residents fleeing. Despite medical efforts, 21-year-old Floyd Manganyi died from his injuries shortly after, while 33-year-old Tshembho Nicolas Makhubela succumbed two weeks later after being transferred to another hospital.
The case, initially filed as assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, was upgraded to murder. Detective Sergeant Rosemary Ntota led the investigation, resulting in the arrest of the suspects a week post-incident. They were granted bail during the investigation.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the sentencing and commended the investigative work of Detective Ntota.