Soweto killer gets 25-year sentence for brutal murder and robbery

In a shocking and tragic case that has rocked the community of Braamfischer in Soweto, South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has handed down 25 years sentence to Nkosinathi Koshe (22) for brutal murder of Mandla Twala (60) and committing house robbery.

The court heard on the night of January 17, 2023, Twala and his wife were awoken by intruders breaking into their home.

Twala went to investigate the disturbance and upon hearing a gunshot, his wife followed suit.

His wife was forcibly confined to the bedroom by Koshe and his unknown accomplices, who robbed her of her belongings.

Twala was later found dead outside his house.

Sergeant Madzena’s investigation into a disturbing case has uncovered a tangled web of deceit and criminal activity.

Koshe allegedly arrived at his parental home in the early hours of the morning, demanding money from his parents.

What started as a simple request for money quickly escalated into a confession of a crime when the accused’s stepfather questioned the origins of a ring he was wearing.

In a startling turn of events, the accused admitted to committing a crime and coerced his stepfather into borrowing him money to help him flee to the Eastern Cape.

For five months, the accused managed to evade arrest as he eluded authorities in the Eastern Cape.

However, his luck ran out when his stepfather finally notified the authorities of his whereabouts, leading to his arrest.

Koshe pleaded guilty in court and received a sentence of 25 years for murder and 15 years for robbery.

Despite his mitigating factors, including his guilty plea and lack of prior convictions, the court handed down a severe sentence to ensure justice for the victim and his family.

The State Prosecutor, Pheello Maleleka, presented a victim impact statement from the deceased’s wife, highlighting the lack of remorse shown by Koshe’s family and their failure to report the incident to the authorities, allowing him to flee to the Eastern Cape.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng Division Regional Spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane reassured the community that  NPA is dedicated to upholding justice and maintaining public safety.

“The NPA’s commitment to vigorously prosecuting crimes of this nature sends a clear message that justice will prevail,” said Mjonondwane.

The community of Braamfischer can now rest assured that those responsible for the crime will be held accountable.