Man sentenced for four murders
Vusi Mncina received multiple sentences for murder and attempted murder in Ezulwini.
Former deputy sheriff Vusi Mncina was sentenced on Wednesday by Judge Titus Mlangeni for the murders of four women and the attempted murder of another in Ezulwini. Mncina received 14 years for the attempted murder of Thuli Mkhwanazi. He was sentenced to 29 years each for the murders of Nonhlanhla Thwala, Lungile Shongwe, and Fikile Shongwe. An additional 23 years were given for the murder of his girlfriend, Cynthia Khulile Shongwe.
Lawrence Mavuso, Mncina's stepfather, stated that even 300 years would not have shocked him regarding the sentence. Mavuso, who lives in Maduma, said he had anticipated a lengthy prison term since the shootings on October 28, 2023. He has visited his stepson in prison but has not received a clear explanation for the crimes, only claims of being influenced by demons.
The case has drawn national attention due to the severity of the crimes and the lengthy sentence. Judge Mlangeni described Mncina as a dangerous person unable to control his anger. Mavuso, who raised Mncina, described their relationship as close and met with his stepson after the sentencing. He noted that Mncina had never shown violent behaviour before.
Why it mattersFour women and one woman were killed or injured in Ezulwini, affecting their families.