The conviction stems from a horrific incident on September 9, 2022, in Mkhondo, where Sipho Fakude and unidentified accomplices broke into a woman’s home intending to rob her, said Monica Nyuswa, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Mpumalanga.

When the victim, 70-year-old Nomsa Simelane, stated she had no money, Fakude attacked her with a bush knife, severely mutilating her body before dumping her remains in a nearby river.

During police investigations, her lifeless body was found in the river, leading to Fakude’s arrest. Despite pleading not guilty, he was convicted based on strong circumstantial evidence, including formal admissions and a police-led pointing-out procedure.

Senior advocate Themba Lusenga presented key evidence, including eyewitness testimony confirming Fakude led police to the crime scene and described how he disposed of the body. Forensic analysis confirmed the victim’s blood on the weapon used in the attack.

A post-mortem report revealed Simelane died from partial decapitation and severe injuries sustained during the attack.

During sentencing, Simelane’s granddaughter gave an emotional victim impact statement, describing the psychological trauma her family endured after burying their brutally murdered grandmother.

Lusenga urged the court to impose a harsh sentence, emphasizing the brutality of the crime and the need for deterrence.

The NPA in Mpumalanga welcomed the conviction, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of violent crimes.

“Every day, the NPA prosecutes cases that impact the safety and well-being of our communities, reinforcing our dedication to upholding the rule of law,” said Nyuswa.