Pretoria: Government has welcomed the sentence handed down in the Mthatha High Court to Bulelani Mabhayi for crimes committed between 2007 and 2012.

Mabhayi received 25 life sentences, amounting to 625 years which will run concurrently.

“This sentencing shows that the wheels of justice have turned. Government remains steadfast in its commitment to reduce crime, and commends the South African Police Services and the judicial system for their efforts to ensure that justice was served,” Acting Government Communications (GCIS CEO), Phumla Williams, said.

She said government will continue in its endeavour to fight crime; however, this can only be achieved through a cooperation of all sectors of communities.

Government has put in place systems such as the Constitution, supporting legislation, policies and programmes aimed at fighting crime in the country. Williams said on its own, the criminal justice system will not be able to eliminate this scourge in society.

She urged community members to come forward and report these crimes so that perpetrators may be brought to book.

“The task of building a safe and prosperous South Africa requires a social pact amongst all South Africans. Government encourages communities to engage in dialogue to break the cycle of crime,” said Williams.

She called on citizens should call the Crime Stop Share Call Line: 08600 10111 to report any incidents of crime.