By REGINALD KANYANE
29 October 2025- A man (39) was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kathu for killing his girlfriend. On 11 January 2025, the victim, Lerato Cathrine Ntaolang (34), was visiting the accused, Thabiso Juel Sekamoeng at his residence in Dithakong village when an argument ensued.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said during the altercation, Sekamoeng struck the victim on the head with a sharp object and fled the scene, leaving her in a pool of blood. Pilane said the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel later declared the victim dead on the scene.
“The incident was reported to the Bothithong Police Station, and the suspect was swiftly arrested and charged with murder on the same day. Detective Constable Lucky Mabuthwane was assigned to investigate the case. Through his meticulous investigation, bail was successfully opposed, and the accused remained in custody throughout the trial. The court subsequently convicted and sentenced him to 25 years of direct imprisonment. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola has welcomed the lengthy prison sentence. Otola commended Mabuthwane for his thorough investigation and dedication, which ensured the swift finalization of the case.
“There is a need for communities to break the silence on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to prevent the unnecessary loss of lives and ensure that perpetrators face the full might of the law,” she said.
The Guardian 