Zimbabwean Pastor and Son Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Violent Attack on Young Man in South Africa

A Zimbabwean pastor, Solomon Mahlangu, and his son, Enock Mahlangu, have been sentenced to life imprisonment in South Africa after being found guilty of a violent attack that left a young man severely injured. The ruling was delivered by the Emalahleni Regional Court in Mpumalanga, following extensive investigations and a trial that spanned several months.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced the verdict on Tuesday, November 26, 2025, noting that both Solomon and Enock were convicted of attempted murder and kidnapping. Enock’s wife, Poppy Lethnes Mhlanga, was also convicted of kidnapping for her role in the incident.

The case dates back to March 27, 2024, when the victim was taking a shortcut through the church premises on Kroomdraai Road towards Extension 16 in Vosman. He was confronted by the accused, who claimed he had stolen batteries and other items from the church.

According to the NPA, the victim was forcibly detained and assaulted. His injuries were so severe that a passerby who later found him immediately rushed him to a medical facility for urgent treatment. Police investigations led to the arrest of all three accused, who were subsequently released on bail under strict conditions while awaiting trial.

Throughout the trial, the accused maintained their innocence and chose to exercise their right to remain silent. However, the State, led by Prosecutor Francois Brandt, presented what the court described as credible, consistent, and compelling evidence.

This included the victim’s detailed account of what happened, as well as photographic evidence documenting the scene where the attack occurred. The court found the testimonies of the accused to be mere denials lacking substance and rejected their explanations as improbable.

The presiding magistrate affirmed that the victim’s testimony was reliable and truthful, forming a strong basis for conviction. Prosecutor Brandt emphasized the need for firm punishment to underline the seriousness of violent crimes and discourage similar acts.

Sentencing and NPA Reaction

In determining the sentences, the court considered the roles each of the accused played in the commission of the offences. Solomon and Enock Mahlangu were each handed life imprisonment for attempted murder and an additional three years for kidnapping. Poppy Lethnes Mhlanga received a three-year direct imprisonment sentence for kidnapping.

All three were also declared unfit to possess firearms, a further measure aimed at safeguarding the public.

The NPA welcomed the outcome, describing it as a significant step in enforcing accountability for violent offences. “The National Prosecuting Authority remains unwavering in its commitment to vigorously pursuing perpetrators of violent crimes, sending a clear and firm message to would-be offenders,” the agency said in its statement.

The ruling brings closure to a deeply disturbing case that shocked the local community and highlights the justice system’s firm stance against acts of violence.