Two men found guilty of the murder and robbery of an elderly couple on a farm in Parys earlier this year have been handed two life sentences plus a further 18 years.
Ezekiel Mnguni (30) and Oupa Mokoena (49) were handed their sentences in the Parys Magistrate's Court by acting Judge Wilfred Phalatsi on Thursday.
The bodies of Ernst and Annatjie van Rooyen were found on the farm Somerset in January this year. Annatjie had been stuffed inside a freezer.
A third accused, Mmaditaba Mokubung (46), who was found in possession of some of the couple's stolen property, was acquitted due to a lack of evidence against her.
Free State police spokesperson, Peter Kareli, says the pair will serve double life sentences for the murders, and 18 years for aggravated robbery. He says lawyers for the pair tried to appeal the sentences but Judge Phalatsi denied their request.
OFM
