Saps welcome life sentence handed down in Sadia Sukhraj murder case
KwaZulu-Natal police say the stiff sentence handed down in the Sadia Sukhraj murder case sends a strong message.
Sibonelo Mkhize was given two life sentences for murder and 15 years for robbery in the Durban High Court today.
Saps spokesperson, Jay Naicker says the conviction and sentence are a warning that criminals will face the full might of the law.
"We hope that the sentence will bring comfort and closure for the family. We also wish to congratulate the investigation team for their dedication and commitment since the beginning of the investigation and throughout the trial," said Naicker.
Judge Esther Steyn found that Mkhize's actions were directly responsible for the deaths of Sadia and Bulose.
Mkhize maintained his innocence throughout proceedings.
Sadia's family wept in court this morning when Steyn read out Mkhize sentence.
Mkhize was convicted on Monday for the 9-year-old girl's death, as well as the death of his accomplice, Siyabonga Bulose in a botched hijacking in May last year.
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Saps spokesperson, Jay Naicker says the conviction and sentence are a warning that criminals will face the full might of the law.
"We hope that the sentence will bring comfort and closure for the family. We also wish to congratulate the investigation team for their dedication and commitment since the beginning of the investigation and throughout the trial," said Naicker.
The little girl's murder sent shockwaves through the Shallcross and Chatsworth, with the incident being brought to the attention of top government officials.
WATCH: Sadia Sukhraj's father testifies during sentencing
Judge Esther Steyn found that Mkhize's actions were directly responsible for the deaths of Sadia and Bulose.
Mkhize maintained his innocence throughout proceedings.
Sadia's family wept in court this morning when Steyn read out Mkhize sentence.
