Picture: The deceased, Sophy Ntsimane

By REGINALD KANYANE

9 January 2026- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the North West said it notes the arrest of Othusitse Rajane for the alleged brutal murder of his girlfriend, Sophy Ntsimane. According to the EFF, Rajane will appear before the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court for a formal bail hearing on 13 January 2026.

The EFF provincial spokesperson, Fanon Moema said Rajane is accused of stabbing his girlfriend to death in Lichtenburg. Moema said the cold-hearted murder of Ntsimane, which left the community grieving, is proof that the phenomenon of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is on rise which sees women being brutally murdered by the very people who are supposed to shower them with love.

“This horrific and heinous acts of crime points to the persistent patriarchal relations, not only in the community in general, but also at home(s). The EFF sends its sincere condolences to the family, loved ones and community of Ntsimane, who was a well-known community activist.

“Our GBV Desk will be preparing the ground ahead of the bail hearing to ensure that residents, activists and religious organisations attend court and monitor proceedings on the 13 January 2026, Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court,” he said.

Moema further said they will support the family in this difficult time. He added that they call on all law enforcement agencies not to sleep on the job.  “We further call on the National Prosecuting Agency (NPA) to oppose bail and send a strong message that no perpetrator of  femicide, infanticide, rape, abuse and GBV must enjoy impunity,” said Moema.

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