2 men jailed for murdering 71-year-old farmer & attempting to flee to Lesotho with his car! The Koster Regional Court in North West has handed down life sentences to two men convicted of the brutal murder of 71-year-old farmer Ephraim Diloro.
The accused, Wahasele Hazekiel Majoro (33) and Tumelo Martin Katali (41), were also sentenced to an additional ten years for theft, with both sentences to run concurrently.
The Tragic Incident
The murder occurred on April 4, 2022, at Diloro’s home in Koster. According to Sivenathi Gunya, the provincial spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), one of the accused, Majoro, had previously worked as a herd boy on the deceased’s farm.
On the night of the crime, Majoro and Katali visited Diloro at his home, initially borrowing R200 from him. However, the situation escalated when the pair demanded more money. Upon Diloro’s refusal, the two men strangled him to death in what was described as a heinous and deliberate act of violence.
Following the murder, Majoro and Katali stole Diloro’s bakkie and attempted to flee to Lesotho.
Arrest and Evidence
At the Lesotho border post, alert police officers intercepted the stolen vehicle. Upon inspection, the officers grew suspicious of the bakkie’s ownership. Their suspicions were confirmed when investigations revealed that the vehicle belonged to the murdered farmer.
Gunya explained:
“Attempts to bribe the officers failed, and further investigations confirmed the vehicle belonged to the deceased. The accused were arrested and linked to the murder through further evidence.”
The swift action by law enforcement ensured that the perpetrators were brought to justice before they could escape the country.
Court Proceedings
During the sentencing, State Prosecutor Sangweni Zimema urged the court to impose the maximum penalty, citing the prevalence of farm murders in the region and the need for deterrence. He argued that the brutal nature of the crime warranted no leniency.
In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Segakweng Moeng emphasized the court’s role in protecting society’s vulnerable members, particularly the elderly.
“The two accused acted in common purpose, committing a heinous crime against an elderly man. Such actions cannot be tolerated, and justice must prevail,” he stated.
Sentencing
Both Majoro and Katali were sentenced to:
- Life imprisonment for murder
- 10 years for theft, to run concurrently with the life sentences.
The sentencing reflects the severity of their crimes and sends a clear message about the consequences of such acts of violence.
Recognition for Law Enforcement
The Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr. Rachel Makhari, praised the investigative and prosecutorial teams for their meticulous work in securing convictions.
“This sentence sends a strong message to would-be offenders that justice will prevail, and those who commit such crimes will face the full might of the law.”
Dr. Makhari also acknowledged the role of law enforcement in ensuring the swift arrest of the accused, which prevented them from evading justice.
The Broader Context
The case highlights the ongoing issue of farm murders in South Africa, a topic that has drawn national and international attention. Such crimes not only devastate families and communities but also strain rural economies and amplify fears among those living in isolated areas.
By imposing life sentences, the court has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these crimes with the seriousness they deserve. The judgment is also a step towards restoring confidence in the justice system, particularly in rural areas where residents often feel vulnerable to violence.
Community Reaction
The sentencing has been welcomed by residents of Koster and the broader farming community. Many see it as a necessary step in deterring future crimes and ensuring the safety of farmers and farmworkers in the region.
Diloro’s family expressed relief at the conclusion of the trial, although the pain of losing a loved one in such a violent manner remains.
Conclusion
The life sentences handed to Wahasele Hazekiel Majoro and Tumelo Martin Katali mark a significant victory for justice in the fight against farm-related crimes. As South Africa continues to grapple with issues of rural safety, this case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of law enforcement, judicial accountability, and community vigilance in addressing violent crime.
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