By REGINALD KANYANE
10 February 2026 – The accused, Tshepo Jantjie (35) was sentenced to 21 years imprisonment for business robbery and murder by the Kuruman Regional Court. On 16 January 2022, the shop owner (24) was approached by two men at his shop in Maipeing, near Tsineng.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Merapelo Pilane said the suspects pretended to be customers purchasing items. Pilane said while the victim was assisting them, both men produced firearms, threatened him and demanded money and cigarettes.
“During the altercation, one of the suspects fired a shot, injuring the shop owner in the upper body. The suspects fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash, cigarettes, airtime and cellular phones. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment and the incident was reported to Tsineng Police Station.
“A case of business robbery was opened. The case docket was assigned to Detective Sergeant Mojaki Mogaswa, whose meticulous investigation led to the arrest of the suspect, who was subsequently charged with business robbery and attempted murder,” he said.
Pilane further said on 8 February 2022, the victim succumbed to his injuries and the charge was amended to include murder. He added that following several court appearances, the accused was found guilty on charges of murder and business robbery.
“On 5 February 2026, he was sentenced to an effective 21 years imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Pilane.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, welcomed the sentence and commended Detective Sergeant Mogaswa for his dedication and thorough investigation, which ensured justice for the victim and his family.
The Guardian 