Two Men Sentenced for Robbery and Attempted Murder
02 April 2025
Two Men Sentenced for Robbery and Attempted Murder
The Barberton Regional Court has convicted and sentenced two men for robbery with aggravating circumstances and attempted murder following an incident at a local tavern. Thabo Mpila (19) received a 15-year direct imprisonment sentence, while Phumusa Mathebula (21) was sentenced to 30 years in prison. On the evening of 29 January 2024, the victim was on his way home after closing his tavern in Barberton Ext 16 when he was confronted by the accused.
The two men demanded the day's earnings. The victim informed them that the money was inside the tavern and offered to retrieve it, but the accused refused, aware that an alarm system was installed. Instead, Mathebula drew a firearm and shot the victim in the lower body before robbing him of his cellphone and fleeing the scene. The victim was later transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
During the police investigation, the victim identified his attackers, leading to their arrest. The court denied them bail. Despite pleading not guilty, Prosecutor Michael Mazibuko presented strong evidence, including the victim’s testimony, detailing the incident and the role each accused played. The victim also identified them as regular patrons of his tavern. A medical report confirming his injuries was submitted as evidence.
In aggravation of sentence, the prosecution presented a victim impact report, which revealed that the victim had become a recipient of a disability grant due to the injuries he sustained. Considering their roles in the crime, the court sentenced Mpila to 15 years' direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances. Mathebula received 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances and an additional 15 years for attempted murder, totalling 30 years.
The NPA welcomes the sentence and remains committed to ensuring justice for victims of violent crime. Every day, the NPA prosecutes numerous cases that impact the safety and well-being of our communities, reaffirming our dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Issued by:
Monica Nyuswa
NPA Regional Spokesperson
DPP Mpumalanga
Tel: 013 045 0625
Cell: 076 485 5446
mnyuswa@npa.gov.za