A 15-year-old boy from Nongoma has been sentenced to 43 years in prison for the brutal murder of a 61-year-old school principal named Alpheus Mphumuzeni Ntuli.
A 15-year-old boy from Nongoma has been sentenced to 43 years in prison for the brutal murder of a 61-year-old school principal named Alpheus Mphumuzeni Ntuli.
The Nongoma Regional Court handed down the sentence last week, convicting the teenager of murder, theft of a firearm, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The incident occurred in April 2023, when Alpheus Mphumuzeni Ntuli, the principal of Bhekintinta High School, was reported missing.
Police investigating the case later discovered his body near a riverbank in the Odwaleni area, showing signs of head wounds and bruises.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for the KwaZulu-Natal Police, stated, “His body was found with open wounds on the head and bruises all over the body.”
Police had spotted Ntuli’s vehicle being driven by the suspect on Mkhuze Road. “When they approached, the suspect sped off but later abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot,” said Netshiunda.
Further investigations led the police to the suspect’s residence in Toyisa, where he was arrested. The boy was found in possession of the firearm and ammunition stolen from his grandfather, which he used in the crime.
The teenager pleaded guilty to all charges, leading to his conviction. “The teenager was arrested and made several court appearances before pleading guilty,” Netshiunda confirmed.
“We commend the police officers involved in swiftly apprehending the suspect and bringing him to justice,” Netshiunda said.
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