Anni Dewani's killer jailed in SA

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) -  One of the suspects in the high-profile Anni Dewani murder trial, Mziwamadoda Qwabe, was jailed for 25 years on Wednesday for his role in the incident.

Anni was shot dead in Cape Town while on honeymoon in November 2010.

The incident made headlines around the world and impacted on South Africa’s multi-billion rand tourism industry.

Her husband, Shrien, returned to the UK days after her murder but was then identified as the main suspect.

The Western Cape High Court handed down 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances, five years each for kidnapping and illegal possession of a firearm, and 25 years for murder.

Judge John Hlophe said the robbery, kidnapping and firearm terms would run concurrently with the murder sentence.

Qwabe and his co-accused, Xolile Mngeni, are believed to have carried out the crime on the orders of Shrien Dewani, who is fighting extradition from the UK to face trial.

He is being treated for depression and post-traumatic stress disorder at a mental health clinic.

The Westminster Magistrate's Court is due to resume its hearing into the matter on 18 September to determine whether he is fit to stand trial in Cape Town.
-0- PANA CU/SEG 8Aug2012