A 30-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment, while his co-accused received 20 years, for the brutal murder of 20-year-old Bhekokuhle Mahlaba in Daggakraal six years ago.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the sentences handed down by the Regional Court in Amersfoort on 13 November 2025.

Scelo Sicelumusa Kubheka (30) was sentenced to life imprisonment, and his co-accused, Mbuyiseni Ludrick Khoza (25), received 20 years. Both men were also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The case dates back to 2 February 2019, when Mahlaba was found lying in a pool of blood on Sinqobile Street just before midnight. He had sustained multiple stab wounds to the upper body.

According to police, Mahlaba had earlier attempted to avoid confrontation after Kubheka, Khoza, and three others allegedly provoked him and caused disturbances at a local tavern. Although he left to keep the peace, the group reportedly followed him to another tavern, where they again threatened patrons with knives and pangas.

Mahlaba’s family became alarmed when he failed to return home. His friend went out to look for him and witnessed the assault. He ran to get help, and by the time he returned, police were already on the scene. Paramedics later declared Mahlaba dead.

It later emerged that both the victim and the accused were learners at a local school at the time of the incident.

Following a thorough investigation, the accused were swiftly arrested. Major General Mkhwanazi praised Detective Sergeant Elijah Thusi for his dedication, saying the outcome showed that violence would not be tolerated.

“We commend the diligent work of the investigating officer and the prosecution team for ensuring that justice is served,” he said.