A 32-year-old man, Matome Clifford Monakhisi, has been handed a sentence for the brutal murder of his live-in girlfriend. Tembisa Magistrate, Magostrate Naidoo, delivered the verdict, ensuring that justice was served.
The tragic incident took place on March 1, 2019, when Maruping Mahanr, the deceased, was sitting on the veranda with her landlord and friend. Matome, fueled by jealousy, arrived from Polokwane after incessantly calling the landlord’s phone. Tensions escalated quickly as Matome accused Maruping of neglecting him upon his return.
Within moments, screams for help echoed through the air as Maruping emerged from their shared backyard room, covered in blood. The horrifying scene revealed that she had been stabbed in the upper body and lower abdomen, with her intestines protruding.
Maruping was rushed to Tembisa Hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries after a few days.
Matome initially evaded arrest and went on the run. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of Sergeant Stanley Mothapo and the dedicated investigative team, the accused was apprehended in Polokwane and brought back to Tembisa to face charges of murder.
After a series of court appearances, the Tembisa court magistrate, Mr Naidoo, found Matome Clifford Monakhisi guilty of murder. He was subsequently sentenced to eighteen (18) years of direct imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Tembisa Acting Station Commander Colonel Percy Selematsela, welcomed the sentence and further urged women to see the signs when a man starts to be abusive and never settle for less for the sake of kids or that the man is the provider.
“Gender based Violence has left many families torn apart, community and neighbours are also advised to report on behalf of the victims, each police station has a GBV office where victims are treated with courtesy ,” advised Colonel Selematsela