Pretoria, South Africa - In a significant victory for the South African Police Service (SAPS), a 29-year-old Ugandan national, Sulaiman Kamya, has been sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for the gruesome murder of a couple in Northam, Limpopo.
On January 4, 2019, the charred remains of Joshua Mutaasa (38) and his wife Rita (43) were discovered at their residence in Wildebeeslaagte, Northam. The investigation revealed that the couple had been violently attacked with a sharp object, and the perpetrator then set the house ablaze. The deceased's silver BMW sedan was also stolen.
Through meticulous investigation, Detective Sergeant Thabiso Seshoka tracked down the accused to Rustenburg, North West, where crucial evidence was found, including a blood-stained pair of trousers and the deceased's cellphone. Further investigation led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle and additional evidence linking the accused to the crime.
The trial revealed that the murders were premeditated and carried out as an act of revenge. The accused had made an agreement to buy the couple's vehicle but later demanded a refund, leading to a dispute that culminated in the brutal murders.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, praised the investigation team for their dedication and commitment to justice. "The sentencing of the accused serves as a stern warning that such brutal acts of violence will not be tolerated in our society. Our police officers remain dedicated to working tirelessly to prevent such tragedies and to bring those responsible for criminal activities to justice."
The accused was sentenced to two life terms for the murders and an additional 15 years for house robbery. The successful investigation and conviction serve as a testament to the SAPS's unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for all victims of crime.
