- A Mpumalanga woman was sentenced to 57 years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to murder, kidnapping and several related offences.
- The victim’s body was found bound and weighed down in the Roodebank River following an extensive police investigation.
- Three co-accused men have pleaded not guilty and will stand trial separately in the Evander Magistrate’s Court.
A 30-year-old woman, Nonhlanhla Portia Nkosi, has been sentenced to an effective 57 years’ imprisonment by the Evander Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, after being convicted of murder, kidnapping and a range of related offences. The sentence follows her guilty plea on all counts arising from a violent crime that shocked the local community.
The case originated from the disappearance of Sfiso Lucky Khubeka, who was reported missing on 21 April 2024. As police investigated his disappearance, they uncovered the existence of a criminal group allegedly involved in a series of illegal activities. What began as a missing person inquiry soon escalated into a murder investigation.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe said the investigation led to a tragic discovery. Khubeka’s body was later found in the Roodebank River. “His hands had been tied with cable ties, and his legs were tied to a heavy rock with a rope,” she said, describing the condition in which the deceased was discovered.
Guilty plea and lengthy prison sentence
Nkosi pleaded guilty to all charges brought against her. These included murder, kidnapping, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, cybercrime, fraud, robbery and intimidation. According to police, the evidence against her was overwhelming, leaving little room for dispute.
Nonyane-Mpe said the strength of the state’s case ensured convictions on all counts. The court ultimately imposed a combined sentence of 57 years’ imprisonment, reflecting the seriousness of the crimes and the brutality involved in the killing.
While Nkosi’s sentencing brings one part of the case to a close, proceedings against other accused individuals continue. Three men, Mandla Skosana, Sibusiso Skosana and Seun Mpenzi, have pleaded not guilty to charges linked to the same criminal conduct. They are expected to remain before the court as their trial proceeds.
Police were commended for their dedicated investigative work in dismantling the criminal group and ensuring accountability. Authorities have reiterated that justice efforts will continue until all those allegedly involved in the crimes are brought before the courts.
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