In a significant ruling, feared Mamelodi taxi boss Vusi “Khekhe” Mathibela, along with three others, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of North West businessman Wandile Bozwana.
The sentencing took place in the North Gauteng High Court, where Mathibela, Sipho Patrick Hudla, Robert Mutapa, and Bonginkosi Khumalo were also given additional sentences for attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
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Judge Papi Mosopa, presiding over the case, expressed his disappointment at the lack of remorse shown by the convicted individuals throughout the trial.
He noted that they failed to testify or provide any explanation for their actions. The motive behind the murder remains undetermined, but it is clear that an instruction led to the death of the deceased.
The court recognized the violation of Wandile Bozwana’s right to life and dignity, emphasizing the impact on his family. Judge Mosopa highlighted the devastating consequences of the accused’s actions, leaving Bozwana’s children without a father and his wife without a husband.
The family has been traumatized by the loss, and the sentencing aims to meet the basic requirements of justice, deter criminal activities, and rehabilitate the accused.
The sentencing brings a sense of relief to Benedict Bozwana, the brother of the deceased, who has been waiting for justice for almost nine years.
While grateful for the 30-year sentence, Benedict acknowledges that it cannot bring back his brother or undo the pain his family has endured. He expressed sadness that his mother did not live long enough to witness this day, as she was also a victim of murder.
Despite the conviction and sentencing, Vusi Mathibela maintains his innocence. Throughout the court proceedings, he appeared unfazed, even while typing on his cellphone.
Mathibela’s arrest in connection with the murder came after allegations of his involvement in an extortion ring, which led to him being described as Mamelodi’s Al Capone. These allegations, along with his bail conditions, proved to be his downfall.
Mathibela’s bail conditions prohibited him from committing any criminal offenses, no matter how small. However, it was revealed in court that he had attempted to leave the country for a holiday in Dubai, in violation of his bail conditions.
He had also previously travelled to Mauritius for a vacation. As a result, Judge Bert Bam revoked Mathibela’s bail, ensuring that he would remain in custody for the remainder of the trial.
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The timeline of events leading up to the conviction and sentencing highlights the persistence of law enforcement in bringing Mathibela and his co-accused to justice.
The murder of Wandile Bozwana in 2015 led to the arrest of Hudla and Mutapa, who later implicated Mathibela in their confession statements. Mathibela, known as Nyawane due to a limp, eventually surrendered to the police in 2016.
