Supreme Court sentences man who killed his partner to life imprisonment

Louis Serenetra Moyo (49) was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his partner Thobile Grace Khoza (41).

The South African Supreme Court, Gauteng division, upheld the sentence after Moyo pleaded guilty to both murder and unlawful presence in the country, for which he was sentenced to a further six months in prison.

The tragic incident occurred on March 12, 2024, during a domestic dispute that turned violent when Khoza left over R15,000 in his bank account meant for lobola payment.

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Investigations led by Sergeant Mkhize of the Protea SAPS revealed that the couple had been living together since 2020.

Moyo attacked Khoza using various objects, eventually stabbing him and leaving him to bleed to death.

He then locked the room and fled the scene.

Khoza’s dead body was discovered three days later by the homeowner due to an unusual smell and the presence of flies.

Moyo was arrested a short time later and Khoza’s bank card, identification document and mobile phone were found in his possession.

In his defence, Moyo admitted that he committed the heinous act in a fit of rage and accepted that his actions were pre-planned.

Judge Dosio condemned Moyo’s actions, highlighting the blatant disregard for South African law and the serious nature of gender-based violence.

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The judge emphasized the need to impose harsher penalties on the perpetrators of such crimes and stated that the judicial system should act decisively to deter violence against women.

Gauteng NPA regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the NPA remained committed to combating gender-based violence and ensuring justice for victims.

“This case is a stark reminder of the urgent need for support services and early intervention to prevent further tragedies resulting from intimate partner violence,” Mjonondwane said.