Murderers and terrorisers get 309-year sentences
These accused terrorised the community until one of the victims spotted them in the area.
Detective Sergeant Molefi Samuel Manana was praised when two sentences of 309 years were handed down in the Johannesburg High Court on Monday, 26 March.
Both the accused persons, Jansen Jan Jimmy, 34 and Lakay Stephen Small, 38, were found guilty on 33 counts, which included three murders, seven house-breakings with the intent to rob, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and five attempted murders.
The accused and other accomplices committed these crimes between 2015 and 2016. Their modus operandi was to break into their victims’ houses and start threatening them with firearms. In most cases, they shot at the victims several times. Three of their victims, aged between 23 and 67, were shot and killed. Five others were shot and survived. One of the victims was shot 16 times and succumbed to his injuries on the scene.
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These accused terrorised the community of Nooitgedacht in Muldersdrift until one of the victims spotted them in the area. On Wednesday, 6 July, 2016, the victim notified the police. Sergeant Manana and Constable Bambiso of Muldersdrift Police responded swiftly and arrested the first suspect. They worked tirelessly to arrest the second suspect with the assistance of a source.
They immediately put their experience to work, and bail was successfully denied when the accused persons appeared in court.
The sentence was handed down by Judge Monama, while Advocate Du Plooy prosecuted on behalf of the State. The accused were sentenced to three life sentences and a total of 309 years imprisonment each.
Major General Kekana, commander for the West Rand Cluster Police applauded Manana for his willingness to go the extra mile to ensure that justice was served to the families affected by these senseless crimes.
“He showed positive character, diligence, commitment and passion for his work during the trial. Manana showed that he can work under pressure and produce the best work to serve the community” said Kekana.
Manana was encouraged to continue to serve the organisation with pride and dignity at all times. The community also applauded him for the conviction secured.
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