Court sentences man to 15 years for murder
Two of those years are a suspended sentence because he is a first-time offender.
The Springs Magistrate’s Court sentenced Petros ‘Lebo’ Pakiso to 15 years imprisonment for the murder of Matebogo Magooa on April 16.
“We, as the OneStrong Voice Foundation, welcome the sentence imposed by the court. Indeed, if anyone thinks there is no law in this country, wait for it until it knocks at your door.
“This is a hefty sentence. We plead with all men out there to say no to GBVF. The law will be harsh on you, especially for men with families and people they must care for. We say, ‘Stay away from GBV because the law will leave no stone unturned’.
“The fight against GBVF is getting serious,” said Brian Sithole from the foundation.
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Pakiso shot and killed the 38-year-old woman outside Bahama Lifestyle in Kwa-Thema in the early hours of December 11, 2022.
Pakiso opened fire at the car in which Magooa was a passenger, shooting her in the forehead. The driver sustained wounds to his arm and lower body.
Magooa was rushed to the Far East Rand Hospital, where they certified her as dead. Pakiso handed himself to the Kwa-Thema Police Station on the afternoon of the shooting.
He was also found guilty on four counts of attempted murder, for which the court sentenced him to 10 years combined.
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Two of those years are suspended because he is a first-time offender.
“There will never be a befitting sentence for murder, and we hope the family does find comfort in that something was done as punishment to the killer.
“It will take some time for them to find closure, but it has also changed the killer’s life because this will haunt him until he dies. We hope other young men learn from this and change their attitudes toward women.
The Kwa-Thema SAPS applauded detective constable Palesa Ngwenya for the conviction.
She was the investigating officer in the murder case.
“They should know that women are not objects to be bought by money, and they need to be respected like human beings,” added Pule Malefane, a local businessman and community leader.
