In Eswatini, a court has sentenced former Deputy Sheriff Vusi Charles Mncina to 124 years in prison for his role in a deadly shooting that resulted in the deaths of four women and injured a fifth. The incident occurred on October 28, 2023, at Goje Township, Ezulwini. Judge Titus Mlangeni handed down the sentence, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need for deterrence.
According to the court, Mncina had been provoked by two men at a party but chose not to confront them. Instead, he targeted five unarmed and defenceless women, killing four of them. The judge condemned Mncina's actions, highlighting the ease with which he committed the crimes. The victims included Nonhlanhla Thwala, Lungile Shongwe, Fikile Shongwe, and Thuli Mkhwanazi, who survived the attack.
Judge Mlangeni noted that the case was not an ordinary murder matter, as it had a significant impact on the country. He emphasized that the value of life was being diminished by violent criminals who kill without a sound reason. The judge also highlighted the gender-based violence dimension of the case, as the victims were unarmed and defenceless women.
Mncina's personal circumstances, including his marriage and minor children, were considered by the court. However, the judge ruled that these factors paled in comparison to the seriousness of the offences. The court described Mncina as a palpably dangerous person who failed to control his anger.
The judge considered recent murder sentences of 40 and 50 years in individual cases when determining the appropriate punishment. He deliberately avoided mathematical extrapolation, instead opting for a sentence that would send a clear message to Mncina and potential offenders. The court emphasized the need for deterrence in cases involving the use of a firearm resulting in multiple deaths.
In his judgment, Judge Mlangeni quoted the late former Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala, who cautioned judicial officers against approaching punishment in anger or striving for severity. The judge said he had balanced the crime, the criminal, and the interests of society, while remaining firm and demonstrating humane and compassionate understanding.
The court ultimately decided that Mncina's sentence would not run concurrently, as urged by the defence. The judge noted that concurrent sentences could produce a sense of injustice, particularly in cases involving multiple victims. The 124-year sentence aims to keep Mncina away from society and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.
Key points
- The court sentenced Mncina to 124 years in prison for murdering four women and attempting to murder a fifth.
- The judge emphasized the need for deterrence in cases involving the use of a firearm resulting in multiple deaths.
- Mncina's actions were condemned for their extreme callousness, particularly given that the victims were unarmed and defenceless women.
