By OBAKENG MAJE
A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Tlhabane Regional Court for killing his ‘cheating’ wife. Sithandile Ndlobothi (36), was arrested on at Phase 1 Freedom Park, near Rustenburg on 16 January 2023.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said Ndlobothi suspected his wife, Subenathi Nqalekane of infidelity. Mamothame further said on the night of the incident, he was awakened by the cries of their baby.
“Ndlobothi went to put the baby to sleep. He subsequently realized that his wife was not in the house, to which he went out searching for her. He was later called by neighbours, telling him that she had returned.
“On his return, an argument ensued and he started assaulting her with his hands and a stick. Ndlobothi also kicked her with booted feet, while she remained helpless. He stopped momentarily while she confessed that she went to visit a man she was having an affair with,” he said.
Mamothame added that the beating continued thereafter, with onlookers and his brother-in-law pleading with him to stop. He said Nqalekane was later transported to a nearby medical facility, where she succumbed to her injuries upon arrival.
“During the trial, the accused pleaded guilty to the offense. The court further declared him unfit to possess a firearm.,” said Mamothame.
In aggravation of the sentence, the state prosecutor, Sangweni Zimema indicated to the court that domestic violence is a pandemic, which the courts need to act on vigorously. He alluded to the trauma that will be suffered by their son (6), who will grow up without a mother.
Magistrate Segakweng Moeng agreed with the state and remarked on the magnitude of cases before the courts relating to serious and violent crimes against women and children. Moeng highlighted the need for a clear message to be sent by the courts on such criminal offenses.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, Sergeant Motsheoa Segopolo from the South Africa Police Service (SAPS), and other role players, who ensured that the perpetrator was brought to book.
The Guardian 