Bokamoso’s Mashonisa sentenced to 13 years imprisonment

The Rustenburg Regional Court has sentenced 45-year-old Gabriel Nhlanhla Magoqa to thirteen years of direct imprisonment for attempted murder, following a violent altercation that left a local man fighting for his life.

Magoqa, an alleged illegal money lender operating in the Bokamoso area near Photsaneng, was found guilty of shooting a 37-year-old man in the chest during a dispute over an unpaid loan. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening in September 2022.

According to evidence presented in court, the confrontation escalated when the victim failed to repay a loan. Magoqa reportedly drew a firearm and shot the man at close range. The victim was rushed to hospital and survived the shooting.

Detective Sergeant Caro Mathe led the investigation, which ultimately resulted in Magoqa’s conviction. In addition to the custodial sentence, the court declared Magoqa unfit to possess a firearm.

Acting Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2 Commissioner, Brigadier Mamotsamai Ntoagae, welcomed the sentencing and praised the efforts of Detective Mathe, the prosecution team, and all witnesses involved.

“This sentence sends a clear message that acts of violence, particularly those involving illegal firearms and unregulated financial dealings, will not be tolerated. We commend all officers and community members who contributed to securing justice,” said Brigadier Ntoagae.

The case highlights the dangers of unregulated money lending and the importance of community cooperation in bringing offenders to justice.