South African Man Sentenced To Two Life Terms For M8rder Of His Girlfriend And Her Daughter

Thulani Foshini Sikhundla, 40, has been sentenced to two life terms plus five years in jail by the Mpumalanga Division of South Africa’s High Court for the horrific murder of his girlfriend, Dorris Alina Sibiya, and her daughter, Noxolo Simile Khoza.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated on Monday, December 8, 2024, that the accused was in a domestic relationship with Sibiya, who lived in Matsulu B with her two children.

The conviction stems from the terrible circumstances of April 2, 2024, when Sikhundla visited Sibiya at her house. An argument about allegations of infidelity developed into a physical fight.

Sikhundla initially attacked Noxolo in her bedroom before stabbing Sibiya several times.

Sibiya’s teenage son interfered when he heard the screaming, but despite being attacked by the accused, he escaped unharmed.

Sikhundla fled the scene into the mountains, while both victims were declared dead on the scene.

During a lengthy trial, Sikhundla pled not guilty, demonstrating no feeling or regret for his horrible deeds. Senior State Advocate Ashwin Poodhun presented convincing evidence, including eyewitness statements and investigations, emphasizing the atrocity of the crime. There were terrible images and postmortem reports confirming many stab wounds as the cause of death.

In court, Advocate Poodhun urged for a harsh punishment, claiming that the accused’s acts were significantly out of line with cultural ideals that respect and protect women.

Court Preparation Officer Nomfundo Mokoena wrote a victim impact statement that reflected the family’s long-term anguish and financial ramifications as a result of these sad occurrences.

Judge Sheila Msibi decided that there were no compelling reasons to deviate from the statutory minimum terms, resulting in two life sentences for double murder and an extra five years for attempted murder.

“This sentence serves as a critical reminder of the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of victims in our communities. It aims to deliver a strong message to potential offenders that the justice system will respond sternly to acts of violence,” NPA stated.