TWO MEN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR BRUTAL FARM MURDER
14 October 2025
TWO MEN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR BRUTAL FARM MURDER
Kroonstad, Free State – The Kroonstad Regional Court has sentenced Mandau Sejani (50) and Daniel Mosiuwa Motaung (52) to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of farmer Eric David Wessels, and a further seven years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances. The sentences will run concurrently. The court heard that during the night of 24 to 25 October 2020, the two accused broke into Wessels’s farmhouse, where they launched a vicious attack. They assaulted him with blunt objects, tied his hands behind his back, and covered his head with a plastic bag, causing him to suffocate to death. The perpetrators then fled the scene with several stolen items, including the victim’s vehicle, which was later recovered.
In aggravation of sentence, Advocate Dansi Mpemvane argued that the court should impose the maximum penalty for this heinous crime. He highlighted that criminality has become an “infestation” in society, leaving citizens unsafe even in their homes, and that the courts must send a strong message that such violent conduct will not be tolerated.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to pursue justice without fear, favour, or prejudice, particularly in cases involving violent attacks against rural and farming communities. “Human life is sacred, and the value we place on it can never be overstated. This sentence serves as a clear message that those who commit violent and despicable crimes will face the full might of the law,” said Mojalefa Senokoatsane, NPA Regional Spokesperson for the Free State Division.“The NPA will continue to pursue these cases with vigour and determination not only to bring justice to victims and their families but also to deter others who may consider committing such brutal acts.” The NPA remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities and uphold the rule of law, ensuring that all perpetrators of violent crime are held fully accountable.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Free State Division
073 423 3539