South African Correspondent
A Zimbabwean teenager, Brian Mugwira, 19, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for the gruesome murder of 17-year-old Motjatji Thoka from Mokomene village.
Motjatji went missing on January 5, and her remains were found just three days later in the yard of an occupied house with several body parts missing, according to Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, provincial police spokesperson.
“After an extensive investigation, her remains were found on January 8, 2024, in the yard of an occupied house, with several body parts missing,” Ledwaba said.
Mugwira and his co-accused, Tatenda Sithole, 36, were identified as suspects and arrested.
Shockingly, Mugwira was found with some of Motjatji’s body parts when he was arrested on January 26, 2024, in the mountains near Ndzelele village in Thohoyandou.
“Sithole was apprehended on January 16, 2024, at a rental property in Mokomene village, while Mugwira was arrested…where he was found with some of the victim’s body parts,” Ledwaba added.
During the court proceedings, both accused were denied bail and remained in custody. Mugwira pleaded guilty to the murder and received his 22-year sentence. However, Sithole pleaded not guilty, and his trial is set to begin on June 2, 2025.
Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the investigating team for their tireless efforts in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the investigative team…ensuring justice is served for the victim,” Hadebe stated.
Zim GBC News©2024