By REGINALD KANYANE
28 October 2026 – Samuel Xaba (26) was sentenced to 19 years imprisonment for killing his own father (64) in Lofdal, near Stilfontein. Evidence presented in court revealed that the incident occurred on 14 February 2025, when Xaba arrived home after visiting a local tavern.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said an argument broke out between him and his father, escalating into a physical altercation during which the two fell onto a coffee table. Mabasa said Xaba then took a broken leg of the table and repeatedly struck his father on the head.
“The assault continued outside the house, where he picked up a rock and threw it at his father’s head before fleeing the scene. He was subsequently arrested, while on his way to Stilfontein.
“During the proceedings, a victim impact statement compiled by the deceased’s wife, with the assistance of Court Preparation Officer Brenda Mothobi, outlined the devastating impact of the murder on the family,” she said.
Mabasa further said the statement detailed the wife’s struggle to cope with the loss of her husband while facing the prospect of her son serving a lengthy prison sentence. She added that despite her grief, she expressed forgiveness towards Xaba.
“In aggravation of sentence, the state prosecutor, Chris Kok highlighted the seriousness of violence committed within domestic and family settings. Kok argued that the right to life is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution and that Xaba had unlawfully deprived his father of this right,” she said.
Mabasa further said the court also declared Xaba unfit to possess a firearm. She added that the NPA welcomed the sentence, saying it demonstrated the criminal justice system’s commitment to holding perpetrators of violent crime accountable.
“We welcome the sentence, commending all role players who contributed to the successful finalisation of the case. The outcome reaffirmed the criminal justice system’s commitment to holding perpetrators of violent crime accountable and contributing to safer communities.
“We specifically commend Detective Sergeant Tsediso Masoane of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and prosecutor Chris Kok for their roles in ensuring the successful conclusion of the case,” said Mabasa.
She said NPA reiterates that the right to life is fundamental and must be protected. Mabasa said the NPA remains committed to vigorously prosecuting perpetrators of violent crime, including violence committed within domestic and family settings, without fear, favour or prejudice, to ensure accountability and justice for victims and affected families.
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