THE Ngcobo Regional Court has delivered a strong message against violent crime by sentencing Lwazi Ntlombe (31) and Malixole Sixishe (54) to life imprisonment for murder and an additional 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The conviction stems from the brutal attack on Khawulele Shumane (62), a security guard at Cefane Hoek Quarry. On April 13, 2024, Shumane was found severely injured in front of the guardroom, his face covered in blood and unable to speak. He was rushed to All Saints Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Further investigations revealed that two machinery batteries had been stolen from the site.
A breakthrough in the case came just five days later, on April 18, 2024, when the stolen batteries were recovered in a nearby locality. This crucial discovery led to the swift arrest of Ntlombe and Sixishe on the same day.
The duo appeared before Ngcobo Magistrate’s Court on April 19, 2024. Bail was granted for Sixishe while it was successfully opposed for Ntlombe due to his previous conviction, and he was thus remanded in custody for the duration of the trial.
Sixishe and Ntlombe appeared several times before Ngcobo Regional Court until their conviction and sentencing on February 27, 2025.
Welcoming the sentence, Acting District Commissioner, Brigadier Gcinumuzi Wiseman Chiya, praised the investigative team’s expertise, which led to the swift arrests and successful prosecution.
“This sentence is a victory for justice and a stern warning to those who believe they can commit such heinous acts without consequences. Our communities deserve safety and security, and we will not rest in our pursuit of justice,” Brigadier Chiya affirmed.
