Halambani leader asks NPA to review cases
Villagers seek justice after 13 convicted of arson and malicious damage to property were freed with suspended sentences, sparking outrage.
LIMPOPO – After the judgment of arson and malicious damage to property cases against 13 residents of Halambani village, many of whom are related to the complainant, the acting traditional leader and his aide (Vhakoma) have decided to approach the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the province for a review.
The 13 accused in the matter were freed by the Sibasa Regional Court on April 4.
In June, the acting traditional leader of Halambani village, Vhamusanda Tshidino Patrick Lambani, and his aide, Vhakoma Thivhulawi Rasilwela, wrote a letter to the NPA expressing their dissatisfaction with the judgment.
They were unhappy that the accused, found guilty of arson and malicious damage to property, received only suspended sentences and were not ordered to compensate the complainants. Furthermore, the accused showed no remorse for their actions, they said.
According to Tshidino Lambani, some of the accused had previous convictions which were not considered when the judgment was passed.
He also mentioned that the accused frequently attended court in a manner they preferred, causing delays, for which they were not penalised by the court.
In a letter from the NPA in Limpopo, Maphatiane acknowledged receipt of the complaint from Lambani and Rasilwela.
The NPA has promised to investigate the matter and revert to them with the findings and decision upon completion of the investigation.
Meanwhile, one of the accused, Piet Lambani, who is now out on a suspended sentence, expressed relief at being freed by the court.
He stated that he is focused on moving forward with his life and taking care of his family, rather than dwelling on his previous conviction and its consequences.
