A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment in the Pretoria High Court for murder.
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A Mamelodi son who lied that an intruder had killed his mother has been sentenced to life imprisonment for her murder.
Prince Amukelani Maluleka, 25, was convicted and sentenced for the murder of his 56-year-old Renolda Maluleka in the Pretoria High Court.
The court heard that on the morning of October 11, 2022, Maluleka had told his cousin different versions about how his mother died.
He first said she took her own and then said an intruder killed her.
The NPA said said the cousin found Maluleka standing next to his mother's body.
The victim had been lying in a pool of blood.
The cousin immediately called the police, and Maluleka was arrested at the scene.
Maluleka pleaded not guilty and during the trial claimed an intruder entered the home and killed his mother.
However, State Prosecutor Vusimuzi Tshabalala presented compelling evidence, including testimony from family members, proving his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
During sentencing proceedings, the defence requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing Maluleka’s status as a young, first-time offender and the period spent in custody awaiting sentencing.
The State opposed this application. Advocate Tshabalala argued that Maluleka had shown no remorse and had previously made statements indicating that someone in the household would die.
He further emphasised that being a first offender constitutes ordinary circumstances and does not justify deviation from the prescribed sentence.
The court also heard that the emotional and psychological harm inflicted on the family is profound and irreversible. Advocate Tshabalala further highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in society, submitting that the court should send a strong message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
The deceased’s children and siblings expressed deep emotional trauma and ongoing distress, indicating that they continue to struggle to comprehend the motive behind the killing.
During the judgment, the court agreed that Maluleka had shown no remorse and committed a serious and violent crime.
The court noted that murder is a grave violation of the constitutional right to life. It further emphasised the breach of trust, as Maluleka was in a position of responsibility as the son and sole male figure in the household, yet failed to protect the deceased. The court found no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence and accordingly imposed life imprisonment.
The Gauteng regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Lumka Mahanjana, welcomed the sentencing.
“The NPA reiterates its unwavering commitment to combating violent crime, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice for victims. Communities are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse or violence to the relevant authorities,” Mahanjana said.
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