By OBAKENG MAJE
14 November 2025- A man (37) from Magogong village, near Taung was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Taung Regional Court for killing his mother. The accused, Thabiso Godfrey Nkwane brutal murdered his mother, Maseko Irene Nkwane (55) with a spade.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said he was further sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for contravening a protection order. Gunya said the sentences will run concurrently.
“Judgment was delivered on 13 November 2025. The court heard that the deceased had earlier obtained a protection order against her son. Among other conditions, Nkwane was prohibited from entering her residence or committing any acts of domestic violence. The order was granted on 25 February 2025, and was duly served on him.
“On 9 March 2025, shortly after midnight, the accused went to his mother’s home demanding food. When she refused to open for him, he broke a window to gain entry. Fearing for her safety, she stepped outside carrying a spade in an attempt to warn him off. Nkwane forcefully grabbed the spade from her and assaulted her repeatedly, inflicting severe injuries,” he said.
Gunya further said her screams alerted neighbours, who rushed to the scene, at which point the accused fled. He added that the victim was taken to the hospital, but succumbed to her injuries on 11 March 2025.
“A case was opened and Nkwane was arrested the following day. He has remained in custody since. During the trial, Nkwane pleaded guilty. In aggravation, the state prosecutor, Sammy Bongani Chabe argued that the guilty plea was not a sign of remorse but a response to the overwhelming evidence against him.
“He submitted that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment,” said Gunya.
Magistrate Buti Zulu agreed with the state, finding that the accused showed no regard for human life. Zulu said the court found no basis for leniency and accordingly imposed a life sentence for murder and an additional three years’ imprisonment for contravening the protection order.
Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Prosecutor Chabe and the investigation team for their dedication.
“The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring accountability. Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” said Dr Makhari.
The Guardian 