Man Sentenced To 15 Years Jail Term In Limpopo

A 53-year-old Matarapane Samuel Mokonyane, have been sentenced to 15 years Imprisonment in Limpopo.

Mokonyane was sentenced to 15 years in prison for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

The offences in a case that highlights the ongoing fight against illegal firearms in South Africa.

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In a statement issued late Thursday, by the South Africa Police Service, (SAPS), disclosed that, the Provincial Commissioner, Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, expressed satisfaction over conviction and sentencing of Matarapane Samuel Mokonyane.

According to Hadebo, this shows the commitment of the service in curbing crime rate in the country.

Incident And Arrest Details

The conviction follows an incident that took place on 23 July 2021, at approximately 16:10, on the R579 road between Motetema and Groblersdal, within the Sekhukhune District.

The Police, acting on a tip-off regarding a planned armed robbery, intercepted a white Ford Ranger vehicle with two occupants.

Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered an unlicensed firearm and ammunition in the possession of one of the passengers, identified as Matarapane Samuel Mokonyane.

Mokonyane was arrested on the spot and taken into custody.

He later appeared in court, where he was granted bail, pending his trial.

Court Ruling and Sentence

On Wednesday, 5 March 2025, Mokonyane during a court appearance before the Nebo Regional Court, was convicted on two charges

• Count 1: Possession of an unlicensed firearm
• Count 2: Possession of unlicensed ammunition

The court handed down a 15-year direct imprisonment sentence, affirming the seriousness of the crime.

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Additionally, Mokonyane was declared unfit to possess a firearm, ensuring that he will no longer pose a threat to public safety with firearms.

The Service statement noted that, the sentence serves as a deterrent to persons involved in illegal weaponry activities across Limpopo and the broader South African community.

Police Efforts in Limpopo

Speaking further, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, emphasized the importance of the conviction in strengthening the ongoing efforts to combat crime in Limpopo.

He said, “This conviction sends a strong message that law enforcement remains committed to removing illegal firearms from our communities. We will continue working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our citizens.”