FOUR LIFE TERMS PLUS 50 YEARS FOR GQEBERHA MAN WHO MURDERED A CIVILIAN AND FIRED AT POLICE

01 October 2025

FOUR LIFE TERMS PLUS 50 YEARS FOR GQEBERHA MAN WHO MURDERED A CIVILIAN AND FIRED AT POLICE

Gqeberha, Eastern Cape: The High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, Gqeberha, has sentenced Lunga Skweyiya (37) to four life terms plus 50 years and six months’ imprisonment following his conviction on seven counts, including the premeditated murder of Luzuko Shepherd Meje (24) and the attempted murder of three police officers.

The charges stem from a violent shooting incident that took place in KwaZakhele, Gqeberha, in the early hours of 04 February 2024. Meje was standing near the entrance of Triple K Tavern on Nconco Street when Skweyiya and his co-accused opened fire, killing him in full view of three SAPS members patrolling the area. As the officers drove past, they witnessed the shooting and immediately pursued the suspects. During the chase, the accused fired multiple shots at the officers, prompting them to return fire. Skweyiya was struck in both legs, apprehended on the scene, and found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. His co-accused fled in a getaway vehicle and remains at large. A post-mortem revealed that Meje had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the head and body, with death caused by severe cranial injuries from gunfire.

Although Skweyiya pleaded not guilty, the prosecution, led by State Advocate Dail Andrews, presented overwhelming evidence, including testimony from eyewitnesses, forensic experts, and emergency medical personnel. Crucially, evidence extracted from Skweyiya’s cellphone revealed a text message sent to his father shortly before the shooting, in which he stated his intent to “kill or eliminate someone today” in retaliation for an alleged assault. The court accepted this as clear proof of premeditation. In his defence, Skweyiya offered only a bare denial.

The court imposed the following sentences: Life imprisonment for the murder of Meje, Life imprisonment for each of the three counts of attempted murder of police officers,25 years for possession of a prohibited firearm,25 years for possession of a firearm with intent to commit an offence and 6 months for unlawful possession of ammunition. Although the accused had no previous convictions, the court found no substantial or compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentences. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Welcoming the outcome, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, said: “This case reflects the grave danger posed by armed criminals who show utter disregard for the law and human life. The swift response and bravery of the police officers involved helped to prevent further bloodshed. The sentence affirms our justice system’s resolve in dealing decisively with those who attack law enforcement and terrorise communities. We commend the excellent work of the prosecution, the investigating officers, and all experts whose contributions ensured this conviction.”

The NPA remains committed to working with law enforcement and communities to ensure justice for victims of crime and to hold accountable all those who threaten the safety and security of society.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Eastern Cape Division

Tel: 047 501 2630

Cell: 073 555 9292

Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za