The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has welcomed the sentencing of a 57-year-old man convicted on four counts of murder.

Africa Thembinkosi Shongwe was sentenced by the Breyten High Court sitting in Mbombela on Thursday, 22 January 2026, following a thorough investigation into the deaths of an adult woman and her three minor children.

The court heard that on 25 February 2023, neighbours at Phola Park became concerned when a woman, known for escorting her children to and from school daily, was not seen that morning. After checking on her home, neighbours noticed worrying signs and immediately alerted the police.

Upon entering the house, SAPS members discovered four deceased persons in two rooms. The victims were identified as the woman and her three children, including twin boys and a girl.

A comprehensive investigation led to the arrest of Shongwe, a citizen of the Kingdom of Eswatini and the biological father of one of the children. He was charged with four counts of murder, as well as contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act for being in the country without valid documentation.

Shongwe pleaded guilty to all charges on 19 January 2026. On sentencing, the court imposed life imprisonment on each of the four murder counts and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

Welcoming the outcome, Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the cooperation between investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary. He also commended community members for their vigilance and swift action in reporting the matter to authorities.

SAPS reiterated its commitment to protecting communities and ensuring that serious crimes are thoroughly investigated and successfully prosecuted.