The men were sentenced to a total of 205 years in prison. The men were sentenced to a total of 205 years in prison.
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Five men found guilty of murdering Free State farmer Peterson Andrew have been sentenced to a collective 205 years in jail.
The 65-year-old was murdered at his farm in Summerslie on July 23, 2023.
The accused are: Teboho Mothebedi, 22, Jabulane Ngcongwane, 44, Bheki Maphalala,18, Lephosa Motaung, 26, and Siyabonga Khumalo, 22.
In addition to murder, the five accused were found guilty of housebreaking, robbery and abduction.
South African Police Service (SAPS) Captain Loraine Earle said the robbers stole valuable items, including laptops, cameras, a cellphone, and a Toyota Urban Cruiser.
"The victim was then forced into the boot of his vehicle and transported to the Tseseng area in Qwaqwa, where he was tragically murdered."
Explaining the sentences, Earle said each of the accused was sentenced to three years in jail for housebreaking, twelve years for aggravated robbery, six years for kidnapping, and 20 years for murder.
Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, said this case highlights the SAPS's commitment to ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable for their actions.
"The police remain steadfast in their mission to ensure the safety and security of all communities.
"We thank all the role players involved for their tireless work and exemplary leadership throughout this investigation."
IOL News