The Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court has handed down severe sentences to brothers Wellington Sibanda, 50, and Zimani Sibanda, 45, for their involvement in the brutal murder of 42-year-old Okon Donatis. The duo received life imprisonment plus an additional 62 years and two months each for multiple charges, including robbery, attempted murder, assault, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
In September 2022, Donatis and a friend were at a Johannesburg restaurant when a group of armed men attacked the security guard and robbed customers. Donatis was shot twice during the incident. Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers, alerted by the security guard, intercepted the assailants, leading to a shootout. One JMPD officer was shot and permanently disabled.
Some suspects fled but were later arrested in a nearby abandoned building, where stolen items and firearms were recovered.
Regional Court Prosecutor Charlotte Lutchmiah presented compelling evidence, urging the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentences due to the severity of the crimes. Phindi Mjonondwane, Gauteng spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), emphasized the NPA’s commitment to prosecuting such cases to ensure justice for victims and enhance community safety.
Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the incident and highlighted the ongoing efforts to address violent crime in the region.
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