In a harrowing case that has captivated Johannesburg, a husband and three hitmen have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of two businesswomen. On August 16, 2024, the Limpopo High Court in Polokwane handed down life sentences to Stanley Thabo Leshabane, Mbekelezi Ndodo Buthelezi, Emmanuel Thembelani Dlamini, and Bhekizenzo Sfiso Phiyose for their roles in this tragic crime.

The murders occurred on October 10, 2020, in Polokwane. Makoena Mabusela-Leshabane, a respected chartered accountant, and her business partner, Tebogo Mphuti, were fatally shot while inside their car. The attack was orchestrated by Makoena’s husband, Stanley Leshabane, who had hired the hitmen.

According to the evidence presented, the victims were inspecting a property when three men approached their vehicle and opened fire. Witnesses saw the attackers with what looked like firearms and then fleeing the scene in a maroon car.

The investigation revealed crucial details: CCTV footage and tracking data traced the attackers’ movements, while cellphone records showed their phones were in the vicinity of the crime scene before and after the murder. This evidence was pivotal in securing their convictions.

Alongside the life sentences, Ndodo Buthelezi received additional sentences for illegal firearm possession. This case has provided some measure of justice for the victims’ families and underscores the importance of advanced forensic techniques in solving serious crimes.