PARYS, South Africa — The Free State police celebrated a significant legal victory as two men received a combined 41-year prison sentence for the violent murder and robbery of a local farmer. The Parys Regional Court’s decision came as a response to a devastating incident that occurred at Morelig Farm on January 10, 2025.
The brutal attack claimed the life of 59-year-old Themba Motha and left his partner traumatized. According to authorities, Motha was savagely beaten during the home invasion, which ultimately led to his death. After the assault, the assailants fled with stolen property, including a Mahindra bakkie and several other valuable items.
Thanks to a comprehensive investigation led by a multidisciplinary team, law enforcement quickly apprehended both suspects within two days of the crime. The team included members from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes unit, the Fezile Dabi TRIO Task Team, as well as local police and criminal record experts. Their collaborative efforts resulted in the recovery of all stolen goods from various locations within the community.
The court sentenced 29-year-old Sandile Dlomo to an effective 23 years in prison, including 15 years for murder and another 15 years for robbery. However, the court decided to run eight years of the robbery sentence concurrently with the murder sentence. Similarly, 23-year-old Karabo Lethoba received an effective 18-year prison term, with 15 years for murder and 15 years for robbery, three years of which will run concurrently.
Major General Apaphia Modise, the deputy provincial commissioner for crime detection in Free State, praised law enforcement’s swift response and thorough investigative work. Modise acknowledged the contributions of the involved officers and expressed hope that the sentence would provide a measure of closure for Motha’s family.
“The sentence serves as a strong warning that any attacks against our agricultural community will face severe legal repercussions,” Modise emphasized. The case not only highlights the dangers faced by farmers in the region but also underscores the commitment of law enforcement to protect local communities from violent crime.
As farmers and residents continue to navigate the challenges posed by crime, this ruling may help restore a sense of security, reminding the community that justice can prevail even in the face of tragedy.