Mpumalanga High Court sentences man to 25 years in prison for murder

The Mpumalanga Division of the High Court sentenced Sibusiso Happy Ngobeni, 24, of Matsulu, to 25 years direct imprisonment yesterday, November 13, for the murder of his girlfriend, Yvonne Thandiwe Shabangu.

They were living together at the time of the murder.

Mpumalanga National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said before the incident, Ngobeni accused Shabangu of cheating.

“On September 6, 2023, Shabangu left their home to go to work after Ngobeni followed her. He found her getting off the bus near Bonjour garage in Mbombela. While changing the transport vehicle, the accused fatally shot him and sped away,” Nyuswa said.

During police investigations, Ngobeni was identified and arrested. She pleaded guilty in court and state lawyer Senzo Zindela addressed the court on the scourge of gender-based violence.

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“A photo album and autopsy report were presented confirming that the cause of Shabangu’s death was multiple gunshot wounds to the chest. “The court sentenced the defendant accordingly and found him unfit to possess a firearm.”

He said the NPA welcomed the speedy conclusion of the matter and was committed to ensuring justice for victims of crime.

“We are determined in our fight against gender-based violence and femicide,” he said.

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