MEN WHO TERRORISED GLEBELANDS HOSTEL, CONVICTED
The Pietermaritzburg High Court has convicted eight men on various offences related to the murders and attempted murders that took place at the Glebelands hostel, in Umlazi between August 2014 and March 2016. The men: Bhekukwazi Mdweshu, Khayelihle Mbuthuma, Vukani Mcobothi, Eugene Hlophe, Mcomekile Ntshangase, Mbuyiselwa Mkhize, Mondli Mthethwa and Bongani Mbhele all lived at the hostel. Before the incidents, the men conspired with each other to eliminate or kill residents of the hostel, who threatened their control of the hostel.
During the period of the offences, the following nine people were killed: Siniko Ncayiyane, Thulani Kati, Sipho Ndovela, Themba Pina, Nkosinathi Ndovela, William Mthembu, Thokozani Machi, Mzwandile Gawuza and Lucky Mtwa. Seven others were injured, resulting in the attempted murder charges.
The convictions are as follows:
- Mdweshu was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and four counts of attempted murder
- Mbuthuma was convicted of three counts of murder
- Mcobothi was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder, four counts of attempted murder and three counts of murder
-Hlophe was convicted of four counts of attempted murder
-Ntshangase was convicted of four counts of attempted murder
-Mkhize was convicted of two counts of murder
-Mthethwa was convicted of two counts of attempted murder, two counts of murder, unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition
-Mbhele was convicted of two counts of murder
Sentencing proceedings are set for 16 January 2023.
