Sunday, June 26, 2016

Farm murderers sentenced for Brits killing binge



The Brits community and South Africa will remember the reign of terror that besieged that town during March and June 2014. During these few months, five people were killed, endless robberies among farmers and a wave of panic caused havoc. A 44-year-old man was shot while at a family gathering, and his brother sustained serious injuries that almost paralyzed him.  There was the vicious attack on a family that resulted in the death of the 55-year-old. While visiting a farm in the Brits area, a 70-year-old was fatally shot. These are some of the horrendous crimes committed during a three-month period.
The killers Paulus Mandlazi, a 26-year-old and his accomplice, John Tivane, a 31-year-old from Mozambican were responsible for terrorizing the Brits residents. Fortunately, the police caught up with the thugs during their last robbery and killing spree and stayed behind bars until their trial.
During the court proceedings this week, Mandlazi said it was his hatred of whites that caused him to rob and kill them, and that white people attacked him. The Judge did not accept his statement and told him that it was done out of greed. There was no remorse and Mandlazi described his crimes as just going to work. Mandlazi received a total of five life sentences and a further 195 years for other charges. Some of the sentences will run concurrently. Mandlazi, a young man with a distinct hatred toward white people, in his heart, will now have plenty of time to reflect on his disgraceful criminal activities.

Partner in crime, John Tivane, cried bitterly while testifying and denied any involvement in the crimes. However, he was found guilty and sentenced to three life terms and over 100 years in prison for his criminal involvement in the Brits murders. 

So many people were affected by the vicious attacks that have scarred them for life. Two more dangerous offenders and farm murderers are locked up yet, the killings continue. Farm murders are one of the most frequent and horrendous crimes plaguing South Africa. A farmer is more likely to be attacked and killed than a police officer who is surrounded by danger most of the time. 

Laura Oneale  - published on South Africa Today – South Africa News

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