THREE ACCUSED LINKED TO TAXI VIOLENCE AND VEHICLE HIJACKINGS SENTENCED TO LENGTHY TERMS OF IMPRISONMENT

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentencing of three members of a criminal gang linked to taxi violence by the Polokwane High Court on charges including attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances , possession of explosives, and related serious offences. The sentences were imposed on 05 June 2026. Accused one, Phuti William Mehlape (40), received an effective 38 years' direct imprisonment for two counts of attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, three counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, and conspiracy to commit murder.

Accused two, Matsiri Peter Mokgokong (52), was sentenced to five years' imprisonment for possession of explosives. Accused three, Kgabo Johannes Moloto (45), a taxi owner affiliated with the Moletjie Taxi Association, was sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment for his role in the offences. The court heard that in 2021, Moletjie taxi owner Milford Mmamafa Hlahla and one of his passengers were shot during an attack. Both survived, although they sustained injuries.

Following investigations, police intercepted a stolen Toyota Etios linked to the attempted murder on the N1 South near Mokopane while it was travelling towards Gauteng. The vehicle had been reported stolen in Pretoria. The accused were subsequently arrested, and explosives were recovered during the investigation. During the trial, the court heard that Moloto had allegedly hired the hitman, while Mehlape attacked with two accomplices who have since passed away.

Evidence further revealed that the gang was linked to two vehicle hijackings in the Matlala area and an armed robbery at a liquor outlet in Mankweng. The court also heard that Mehlape committed some of these offences while out on bail. He was subsequently rearrested in 2021 after violating his bail conditions, resulting in the revocation of his bail and forfeiture of his bail money to the State.

The court further noted that Mehlape had previously been convicted of the murder of Constable De Lang and was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Polokwane High Court on 2 September 2021. All three accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, Advocate David Sebelebele presented compelling evidence that proved their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The court subsequently convicted all three accused on the charges against them.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in Limpopo, Advocate Ivy Thenga, welcomed the sentences and commended Advocate David Sebelebele, as well as members of the Provincial Tracking Team and the Provincial Investigation Unit, for their diligent work in investigating and prosecuting the matter.

Their efforts ensured that those responsible for serious violent crimes were brought to justice.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Limpopo Division