By REGINALD KANYANE
22 October 2024- Three people were sentenced to life imprisonment each by the North West High Court sitting in Klerksdorp for murder and attempted murder. This comes after the accused, Clementinah Kokama (64), was in a relationship with Dingaan Dlamini, which ended poorly, leading to their separation.
Shortly after, Dlamini became romantically involved with Nonzame Hondwana, which Kokama did not take well. Driven by jealousy and anger, she orchestrated a hit on Hondwana. On 1 April 2022, while Hondwana was having dinner at home with Dlamini in Kanana Township, near Orkney, there was a knock at the door.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said when Dlamini opened it, accused, Monokwa Malewu (26), indicated he was there to see Hondwana, then shot her multiple times, killing her instantly. Gunya said Dlamini was also injured in the attack.
“The court heard that the murder was premeditated and that Kokama had paid R20,000 to have the hit carried out. Malewu and Kokama were arrested on 8 April 2022 and have been in custody since.
“Following his arrest, Malewu voluntarily confessed to his involvement in the crime in a statement to Captain Olihile Mokae. The third accused, Moeketsi Petrus Lesuhlo (47), a Lesotho citizen, was apprehended on 17 February 2023,” he said.
In court, state advocate Kokeletso Phetlhu emphasized the rise of violent crimes, particularly those against women, urging the court to impose the harshest sentence. Judge President Hendricks denounced contract killings as among the most egregious crimes.
“Malewu was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and seven years for attempted murder. Kokama received a life sentence for murder and fifteen years for conspiracy to commit a crime, in violation of section 18 (2) (a) and (b) of the Riotous Assemblies Act 17 of 1956.
“Lesuhlo was also sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and fifteen years for conspiracy to commit a crime under the same Act. The court ruled that all sentences would run concurrently with the life sentences imposed on each accused,” said Gunya.
Meanwhile, in response, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentences and praised the efforts of the police, state prosecutors, and all involved in securing the convictions.
“We stand united in our resolve to ensure justice is served, and we reiterate that violent crimes will not be tolerated,” said Makhari.
The Guardian 