LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERERS

24 FEBRUARY 2026 

LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERERS 

The Ntuzuma Regional Court has sentenced two men, Sthembele Nongqakanga (27) and Jan Sinqina (21), to life imprisonment each for the murder of 23-year-old Lebohang Mabuya. The murder occurred in May 2024 in the Etafuleni area of Inanda, north of Durban. The accused were known to the deceased, as they lived in proximity and would on occasion socialise together. 

On 28 May 2024, the accused were walking along a road in the area when they encountered the deceased. Following an altercation, they killed him and left him lying on the road before fleeing the scene. The accused later confessed to state witnesses about what they had done. One of the witnesses reported the matter to the deceased’s family and subsequently pointed out both accused to the police, leading to their arrest. In presenting the State’s case, Prosecutor Busiswa Mncwango led the evidence of the witnesses to whom the accused had confessed, as well as the medical doctor who conducted the post-mortem examination on the deceased. In addition to life imprisonment, the court declared both accused unfit to possess a firearm. 

The National Prosecuting Authority hopes that this sentence sends a clear message that crime will not be tolerated. This conviction underscores the NPA’s unwavering commitment to securing justice for victims of crime and their families. 

Issued by: 

Natasha Ramkisson-Kara 

NPA Regional Spokesperson 

KZN Division 

Tel: 071 670 0229