Zimbabwean-born pastor Solomon Mhlanga and his family have been found guilty by the eMalahleni Regional Court in South Africa of kidnapping and attempted murder in connection with a brutal attack that left a man without his hands.
As reported by Emalahleni FM News, Solomon Mhlanga, his son Enock, and his wife Poppy were convicted on 21 November following their trial.
The court found Solomon and Enock guilty on both counts of kidnapping and attempted murder, while Poppy was convicted solely on the kidnapping charge.
The trio was arrested on 27 March 2024 in Hlalanikahle after allegedly abducting the victim, Dumisani Mahlangu, and amputating his hands. The motive for the attack has not been publicly disclosed.
During proceedings on 21 November 2025, the accused, through their legal representatives, maintained their innocence.
They claimed they were unaware of the offence, had previously assisted the victim with his drug problems, and insisted they would never commit such a cruel act. They also said they did not understand why Mahlangu was accusing them.
The judge said that Mahlangu responded to all questions clearly and directly, providing detailed explanations of the incident. The judge added:
“The complainant showed objectivity in his testimony, and it makes no sense that he would implicate three people who had been good to him. Comparing the evidence, the accused are clearly lying.”
The victim, Dumisani Mahlangu, said the conviction brings a long-awaited sense of justice.
Speaking after the verdict, he expressed relief, saying he and his family would be able to sleep peacefully for the first time in over a year.
Mahlangu said he was the only son of his parents and their hope for improving the family’s circumstances.
He added that the physical and psychological scars from the amputation have irrevocably affected his future and his ability to provide for his loved ones.
The Mhlanga family now awaits sentencing, scheduled for Monday, 24 November 2025.
Pindula WhatsApp Channel
Facebook Page
Leave a Reply