Two get life for killing deputy head

By Denver Donian

EAST LONDON -- Two of three men found guilty of murdering a deputy school principal in Lady Frere in January 2000 were given life sentences in the Lady Frere High Court on Wednesday.

Zola Makepula, 24, of Cape Town and Anele Nyanga, 25, of Cala, were both given life sentences plus 44 years. The sentences will run concurrently.

Zolani Bhashe, 24, of Engcobo, was sentenced to 38 years' jail.

All were charged with murder, attempted murder, attempted armed robbery and the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Captain Edwin Taleni said Freemantle Boys' High deputy principal Monwabisi Dubulekwele, 32, was shot dead and his firearm was stolen.

A teacher's wife, Nobatembu Nikelo, 37, was also injured in the incident.

Taleni said the accused approached Nikelo at her home under the pretext they were new students being bullied by other learners.

They asked to see Dubulekwele to discuss the matter and after Nikelo escorted them to his office they introduced themselves and then shot the two.

The three, who intended to steal school fees, fled only with Dubulekwele's firearm.