NPA SECURES TWO LIFE SENTENCES FOR SON WHO MURDERED FATHER AND ATTEMPTED TO KILL MOTHER FOR FINANCIAL GAIN

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured the conviction and sentencing of 37-year-old Manqu Ndimphiwe in the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg for the murder of his father, the attempted murder of his mother, and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The court sentenced Ndimphiwe to two terms of life imprisonment, one for the murder of his father, Mawethu Manqu, and a second for the attempted murder of his mother. In addition, he was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a firearm and three years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of ammunition.

The convictions arise from a tragic incident that occurred on 31 January 2023 at the family home in Leondale, Germiston. On that day, Ndimphiwe's parents returned home during the early afternoon. As they stopped at the gate of their residence, Ndimphiwe approached their vehicle armed with a firearm and deliberately opened fire on them.

His father sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was declared dead at the scene. His mother was also shot, with the bullet entering through her cheek and exiting through her chin. She survived the attack after receiving emergency medical treatment.

During sentencing proceedings, State Advocate William Makwela argued for a substantial sentence, highlighting the gravity of the offences and the fact that the accused had targeted his own parents. The State further submitted that an additional life sentence for the attempted murder count was warranted, given the domestic relationship between the accused and the complainant.

The State successfully argued that the attack was premeditated and motivated by financial gain. Evidence before the court showed that Ndimphiwe intended to benefit from his parents' wealth, pension benefits, and other assets.

In aggravation of sentence, the accused's mother and sister testified about the devastating impact of the crimes on the family. They expressed their fear of the accused and urged the court to impose a severe sentence.

The presiding judge agreed with the State's submissions and exercised the court's discretion to impose a further life sentence for the attempted murder of the accused's mother. The court found that the close familial relationship between the accused and the complainant constituted compelling circumstances justifying life imprisonment for the attempted murder count.

The NPA commends State Advocate William Makwela, the prosecution team, and the investigating officer for their diligent work in ensuring justice for the victims and their family. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offences and sends a strong message that violent crime, particularly crimes committed against family members for personal gain, will be met with the full force of the law.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to holding perpetrators of violent crime accountable and ensuring justice for victims and their families. Acts of violence committed against loved ones, especially those driven by greed and financial motives, represent a profound betrayal of trust and will continue to be prosecuted vigorously.

Issued by:

Magaboke Mohlatlole

 NPA Communications Officer – Gauteng Division, Johannesburg