A Polokwane man has been sentenced to 18 years behind bars for the murder of Tzaneen TVET College student Moshibudi Mashumo, whose decomposed body was discovered inside a house linked to him.
Humphrey Makgoba Malale, 37, was convicted and sentenced recently in the Polokwane High Court.
Limpopo provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the victim, Mashumo was last seen on Valentine’s Day 2025.
Police said two days later, on February 17, 2025, at around 7:30 pm, Mashumo’s decomposed body was discovered inside a house linked to the accused.
A murder case was opened, and on October 30, 2025, a warrant of arrest was executed against Malale.
“Following his arrest, the investigating officer successfully opposed the accused’s release on bail.”
“He remained in custody until his conviction and sentencing.”
Ledwaba said Malale entered into a plea and sentence agreement in terms of Section 105A of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 and was subsequently sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment.
“The court further declared him unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act, 60 of 2000.”
Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers welcomed the sentence and commended the investigating officer and the respective units for their dedication in ensuring that the accused was brought before the court and justice was ultimately served.
“This sentence sends a clear message that the police will continue to pursue perpetrators of serious and violent crimes until they face justice.”
“I commend our detectives and tracking team for their dedication and commitment throughout this investigation. We remain determined to secure justice for victims and their families,” Scheepers added.
