Maboko handed a hefty sentence for 2022 killing spree 

ALVERTON

The Limpopo High Court in Polokwane has on November 1 sentenced Immanuel Charles Maboko (35) to three life terms for three counts of murder. Maboko who is from Alverton in Burgersfort was additionally sentenced to 15 years for aggravated robbery and three years for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The life terms will not run concurrently; however, the sentences for robbery and firearm possession will be served concurrently.

“Despite pleading not guilty and electing to represent himself, Maboko chose to remain silent throughout the trial. The state presented compelling evidence, detailing how Maboko, under the disguise of purchasing a car, entered a BMW dealership in Nirvana, Polokwane  in April  2022.

“During an altercation with a salesman, Maboko fatally shot Muofhe Luvhimbi (56), an educator from Tshikuwi Village in the Vhembe district, who had brought his BMW X6M for service. Maboko fled in the stolen BMW belonging to Luvhimbi but was later apprehended near Peter Mokaba Stadium, with two firearms recovered from the vehicle,” said the Limpopo NPA spokesperson Mashudu Malabi- Dzhangi.

Further evidence linked Maboko to two other murders. On April 1, 2022, he allegedly shot and killed Lucas Malatji outside his home in Mabocha Village, Burgersfort. Additionally, he was implicated in the death of Professor Mohamed Saber Tayob, who was shot while jogging on Munnik Street in Sterkpark, Polokwane on March 13 2022.

In agravation of sentence, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Lethabo Mashiane, presented Victim Impact Statements highlighting the emotional and financial devastation experienced by the families of the deceased. The families expressed enduring trauma and fear, underscoring how these senseless killings left them both heartbroken and financially strained, as the victims were primary breadwinners.

In sentencing remarks, Acting Judge AJ Monene emphasised the broader societal impact of the murders and noted the lack of remorse displayed by the accused, who was reportedly smiling throughout the trial.
Monene asserted that Maboko’s removal from society would contribute to public safety and concluded that there were no grounds to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Ivy Thenga, welcomed the sentence, stating, “The justice delivered provides solace to the bereaved families and demonstrates our commitment to upholding the rule of law.”
She also commended investigating officer Sergeant Florence Tlhatlha from the Limpopo Provincial Organised Unit for her diligent work in this case.