Ekurhuleni Couple Jailed for Life Over Brutal Murder of 93-Year-Old

A couple has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of 93-year-old Yetsee Chan in Edenvale, Ekurhuleni, in 2020. The sentence was handed down by the Johannesburg High Court on Tuesday.

Pranavan and Samantha Moodley, aged 32 and 34, were convicted of murder and robbery following the violent attack on Chan at his home.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed the life sentences for the murder charge.

“In addition to the life sentences, Pranavan Moodley was sentenced to 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, while Samantha Moodley received a 12-year sentence for the same charge,” Mjonondwane stated.

The case details presented in court revealed the horrifying circumstances surrounding Chan’s death.

On September 23, 2020, Chan’s son left his father at home to visit a bank, leaving the gate open. Upon his return, he discovered his father severely injured and tied up in the passage.

“The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital but passed away shortly after arrival,” Mjonondwane explained.

Investigation and Evidence

An autopsy confirmed that Chan died from severe head and cervical spine injuries, consistent with a violent assault.

Further investigation led authorities to a pawn shop in Benoni, where stolen goods from Chan’s home were recovered. This connection helped identify the Moodleys as the perpetrators.

Senior State Advocate Maro Papachristoforou presented crucial circumstantial evidence, including CCTV footage, which showed the accused entering and leaving the area around the time of the crime.

“The footage was instrumental in securing the conviction,” Mjonondwane added.

Mjonondwane emphasized the NPA’s ongoing commitment to ensuring justice for crime victims across the country.

“The NPA prosecutes hundreds of such cases, tirelessly working to protect our communities and secure convictions for those who harm others,” she concluded.

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Sourced:The Citizen