A 15-year-old boy has been sentenced to 43 years in prison by the Nongoma Regional Court for the robbery and murder of Alpheus Mphumuzeni Ntuli, the 61-year-old principal of Prince Bhekintinta High School.

The incident occurred on April 22, 2022, when Ntuli was reported missing, prompting a police investigation.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Col. Robert Netshiunda explained that authorities first encountered the teenager while traveling from Bhanganoma cottages, where Ntuli lived, to a nearby police station. The boy was spotted driving Ntuli’s vehicle on Mkhuze Road but fled when police approached, abandoning the car and escaping on foot.

Days later, Ntuli’s body was discovered near a riverbank under a bridge in the Odwaleni area. His injuries, including multiple wounds and bruises, suggested a violent attack.

The teenager was eventually apprehended at his home in the KwaSnqandi area of Toyisa. Police recovered a firearm and ammunition stolen from his grandfather.

After several court appearances, the teen pleaded guilty to charges of murder, firearm theft, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.

On November 21, the court sentenced him to 43 years in prison, bringing closure to Ntuli’s family and the community affected by the tragic events.