NPA welcomes sentences for men convicted of killing Christine Gumirah outside Wynberg court

CAPE TOWN - The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed lengthy sentences handed down to three men convicted of killing a witness outside the Wynberg Magistrate's Court. 
 
Mandisi Mofu, who was the triggerman, was sentenced to life imprisonment for executing Christine Gumirah in May 2023.

Mofu was also convicted of attempted murder of Thandi Viljoen after a second bullet meant for the deceased shattered her vehicle’s rear window.

His accomplices, Lukhanyo Mene and Vuminkosi Vumani, were both handed 15-year prison terms for identifying her to him prior to the hit.

State Advocate Chandre Smit argued in aggravation of sentence that the actions of the accused were a blatant disregard for the functioning of the legal system.

She further argued that these actions instilled fear in witnesses, as they could be killed outside the court building steps.

NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said: "Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Nicolette Bell welcomed the sentence, saying the courts have sent a very clear message that anyone who targets State witnesses will face similar consequences, as the State will use all its resources to ensure that those who engage in such crimes are dealt with harshly by our courts."

Meanwhile, the case of five suspects accused of killing a man inside the Wynberg Magistrate's Court will return to the same court in September.