GQEBERHA | HIGH COURT SENTENCES SOLDIER MURDERER TO 18 YEARS IMPRISONMENT

One of two accused in the murder of a SANDF member, Pumza Wendy Skade (39) on 12 February 2020 was sentenced in the Gqeberha High court on 19 April 2023 to an effective 18 years imprisonment.

On the mentioned date at about 12:00 Ms Skade who was off duty, informed her family that she was going to New Brighton to consult with her sangoma relating to personal issues. 

This was not the first time that Ms Skade had consulted the sangoma at his house but it was her last. Later, that day at about 16:00, her body was found on the M17 in bushes by a jogger. 

She sustained two gunshot wounds to the head. Information revealed that Ms Skade was at the sangoma’s house prior to her death.

As the investigation unfolded, the investigating officer, D/Sgt Nigel Wright from Provincial Organised Crime arrested the sangoma, Lebohang Lekhooana (39) and his accomplice Vusumzi Msi (30) four months after the murder. 

They appeared in court and were released on R1000 bail.

On 16 January 2023, both accused were found guilty for murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and possession of unlicensed ammunition. On 6 April 2023, 

Lekhooana had passed away due to natural causes before sentencing could be passed.

On Wednesday, 19 April 2023, accused Vusumzi Msi was sentenced to18 years imprisonment for murder, 5 years for possession of unlicensed firearm and two years for possession of unlicensed ammunition. 

The firearm related convictions will run concurrent with the murder sentence. 

The motive for her killing remains a mystery as both accused had denied any involvement in her murder.

Acting District Commissioner for Nelson Mandela Bay, Brigadier Ronald Koll welcomed the sentencing and applauded the excellent investigation by D/Sgt Wright. 

“This investigation required precise investigative skills and tact in order to ensure the successful arrests. The lengthy sentence is an example to others who take advantage of innocent and naïve people who put their trust and future in the hands of traditional healers,” added Brig Koll.

SAPS