The Limpopo Youth Commission welcomes the sentencing of the three students from the University of Limpopo.
The three young scholars, George Tsoai, Raymond Mabelebele and Tibane Serumule were found guilty of murdering Nkosinathi Mhlongo back in February 2008.
The commission agrees with the sentiments that the sentencing cannot replace the stolen life of the young person Mhlongo however finds relieve in the fact that two of the convicts were sentenced to life and another to 15 years behind bars.
The LYC accepts the punishment which should serve as a deterrent to other young people who might be thinking of partaking in unlawful activities. This further gives us confidence that our criminal justice system is on track and that our society has no room for unlawful behavior as inscribed in our constitution.
As a commission responsible for youth development, we are always saddened when young people continue to fill our prisons on a daily basis. Our constant reminder to all young people is that they must avoid criminal behavior due to alcohol abuse or any other factors. We are also committed to further engaging with young people through various campaigns in ensuring that we build a young person who is responsible in behavior, committed to giving back to their communities and law abiding.
The Youth Commission further encourages young people to behave in a manner that is not in conflict with the law.
The commission is positive that the court has meted out an appropriate sentence to the three lads from the University of Limpopo and this will bring finality to the case in order for the family and friends of the victim to move on with their lives.
For more information contact:
Thembi Siweya
Tel: 015 287 6658
Cell: 072 879 1418
E-mail: siweyat@premier.limpopo.gov.za
Kgomotso Malatji
Tel: 015 287 6632
Cell: 073 688 1850 or 082 717 1122
E-mail: malatjik@premier.limpopo.gov.za
