By: Natasha Archary

The High Court of South Africa North West division has handed down life sentences to the trio responsible for the gruesome murder of Sam Mbatha.
Author Khoza (22), Nkuna Mahlatsi (24) and Thatho Masetla (25) were sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, 20-years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, 15-years for kidnapping, 10-years for malicious damage to property and 7-years for defeating the ends of justice.
Mbatha, a Marketing professional and LGBTQIA+ activist went missing from a local tavern in Phutha Section, near Klipgat on 16 June 2021.
He was last seen at the tavern with accused No.3 Thatho Masetla.
Mbatha’s body was found inside a Hyundai 120 at a soccer field in Ikakeng Section. He was burnt beyond recognition.
The gruesome details of Mbatha’s death were laid bare in court, and an axe which was used in his murder was found on the roof of the house Masetla was residing at.
DNA samples assisted the investigating team to identify remains of the burnt body and it was confirmed to be that of Sam Mbatha.
The court ordered that all sentences should run concurrently with the sentence of life imprisonment imposed on count number 1.
Advocate Nangamso Goloda said the sentences must befit the brutality of the accused, as they not only killed Mbatha but stripped away his dignity whilst he was alive.



