A 49-year-old man who killed his partner following a domestic dispute has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Louis Serenetra Moyo was convicted and sentenced in the High Court, Gauteng Division for the murder of his partner, Thobile Grace Khoza.
In addition to murder, Moyo was sentenced to an addition six month in jail for illegally being in South Africa.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng said the murder incident took place on March 12, 2024.
Police investigations revealed that the couple had been cohabiting since 2020.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the argument reportedly revolved around R15,000 in Khoza’s bank account, which Moyo intended to use for paying lobola.
“During the confrontation, Moyo brutally assaulted Khoza using various objects, ultimately stabbing her, and leaving her to bleed to death.
“After the attack, he locked the room and fled the scene.”
The court heard that three days later, on March 15, 2024, the landlord discovered Khoza's lifeless and decomposed body after being alerted by an unusual odour and the presence of flies.
“The police apprehended Moyo shortly thereafter, finding him in possession of the victim’s bank card, identity document, and cellphone.
“In his plea, Moyo admitted to having committed the heinous act during a fit of rage and acknowledged that his actions were premeditated.”
During sentencing proceedings, Judge Dario Dosio condemned Moyo’s actions, highlighting a blatant disregard for the laws of South Africa and the severe nature of gender-based violence, which has become a significant issue in the country.
“The judge reinforced the necessity of imposing harsher penalties on perpetrators of such crimes, stating that the judicial system must act decisively to deter violence against women.”
IOL News