Agreement Mkhari The Thohoyandou High Court has sentenced five individuals to prison for their involvement in the brutal murder of 22-year-old Doctor Mabunda. The charges included assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), kidnapping, and murder.
On 7 December 2022, residents of Nkomo 22A village accused Mabunda of theft. Fearing for his safety, he fled to Nkambako village, outside N’wamitwa, seeking refuge.
A group of community members, determined to confront him, organized transport to track him down. Upon arrival in Nkambako, they interrogated Mabunda’s sister, who disclosed his hiding place. The suspects then pursued, apprehended, and forcibly dragged him into their vehicle before transporting him back to Nkomo(A) village.
Mabunda was first assaulted at a local tavern before being taken to Nkomo Visiting Point. There, the mob set him on fire using petrol and tyres, leading to his gruesome death.
Detective Sergeant Dayson Mabunda led the investigation, ensuring all five suspects were arrested within 72 hours. They were granted bail of R1,000 each on 11 December 2022.
On 14 February 2025, the Thohoyandou High Court found the suspects guilty of the aforementioned crimes. Today, the court delivered the following sentences:
Accused 1, 2, and 3:
Mashimbye Mfumo (30)
Mabunda Tiyiselani (33)
Ngobeni Nsovo Lecent (22)
Each sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for murder and 5 years’ imprisonment for kidnapping. These sentences will run concurrently.
Accused 4 and 5:
Manganyi Tebogo (28)
Mahumani Nkuriso (20)
Each sentenced to 3 years’ imprisonment and 5 years’ suspension for kidnapping and assault.
