Lentswe, Klerksdorp - Two men who brutally attacked Jerry Moitoi in an Orkney restaurant last year, were sentenced to life imprisonment in the Klerksdorp Regional Court this week. Camera footage inside the restaurant capturing the assault was instrumental in their conviction. On Wednesday July 2, the NPA welcomes the life sentences handed down to Paseka Motlhabe (40) and Mveleli Notshozi (40). The two men were convicted of the brutal murder of 35-year-old Moitoi. He was murdered on April 28 last year. Both of the accused were drinking at the restaurant when they accosted the deceased.
Evidence presented in court showed that Moitoi had taken and sold empty bottles previously used by the accused. When the accused confronted him and demanded the proceeds, he refused to hand over the money.
This led to a vicious attack, captured on the restaurant’s surveillance footage, which highlighted the brutal and senseless nature of the crime. Moitoi later succumbed to his injuries, and a murder case was opened.
Both accused were arrested on May 9, 2024 and remained in custody until the conclusion of the trial.
They pleaded guilty to the charge of murder. In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Lihloriso Mthoa urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, citing the rise in violent crimes and the particularly heinous nature of the offence.
The magistrate agreed, stating that the accused showed no regard for human life and acted in common purpose. The court found no substantial or compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence and imposed life imprisonment on both.
Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the investigation and prosecution teams for their diligence and commitment. “The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring accountability. Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” she said.
