By BAKANG MOKOTO
A 44-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to two lives of imprisonment by the North West High Court in Klerksdorp for two counts of murder. On 3 April 2021, Tshediso Koetsi went to his lover’s house, Keitumetse Mjijwa (43) in Jouberton Township, in Klerksdorp where he demanded to speak to her.
Koetsi suspected that Mjijwa was cheating on him. So, when he arrived at the house, an argument ensued between the two. However, Koetsi left and later returned.
Two lovebirds were again seen arguing outside the house, but Koetsi eventually left.
The regional spokesperson for National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in North West, Henry Mamothame said: “On the third occasion, on the same day, Koetsi came back and gained entry, where he started to pour some liquid substance inside the bedroom, which had occupants and set it alight.
“Keitumetse and her sister Dineo (36), sustained burn injuries and later died in hospital. Three of Dineo’s children aged between 5 and 13, also sustained burn injuries, while two more children also sustained injuries caused by the fire.”
Mamothame said Koetsi sustained minor burn injuries, which he showed to the police, claiming that the deceased tried to burn him. He said the convict was taken to a nearby medical facility to receive medical attention and subsequently arrested after police investigations revealed that he is the perpetrator.
“He also received a cumulative 50 years for attempted murder, 3 years for arson, and three years for malicious damage to property. The state prosecutor, advocate Xolisile Philisane argued that Koetsi’s offense was premeditated and urged the court not to deviate from the minimum prescribed sentence of life imprisonment.
“Judge Mahlangu agreed with the state and alluded that Koetsi’s actions have a long-lasting negative effect on the children. Mahlangu registered his disappointment at Koetsi’s remorseless posture and said it is the responsibility of the criminal justice system to deal harshly with Gender-Based Violence and femicide cases,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari-Sekhaolelo, lauded Adv Philisane and Sergeant Itumeleng Moreo, for their collaboration in ensuring that they obtain a successful conviction.
The Guardian 