NPA SECURES 22-YEAR DIRECT IMPRISONMENT SENTENCE FOR WOMAN WHO FATALLY STABBED FAMILY MEMBER

Bloemfontein, Free State – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully secured a 22-year direct imprisonment sentence against 55-year-old Nonqithi Gumanda for the murder of her family member, 50-year-old Violet Khomotsoane, a police officer stationed at Bainsvlei Police Station.

Gumanda was sentenced in the Bloemfontein Regional Court following her conviction for murder arising from the fatal stabbing of Khomotsoane during a family dispute in Freedom Square on 29 November 2024.

The court heard that an argument broke out between Gumanda and another family member at a residence in Freedom Square.

Khomotsoane, who was present at the time, attempted to intervene and defuse the situation. When her efforts proved unsuccessful, she walked away from the altercation.

However, Gumanda followed Khomotsoane outside and stabbed her in the chest. Despite sustaining a fatal injury, Khomotsoane managed to walk to her nearby home, where she collapsed. She later succumbed to her injuries.

During the trial, the State, led by Prosecutor Amore Coetzee, presented evidence demonstrating the circumstances surrounding the fatal attack. Gumanda initially claimed that she had acted in self-defence. She later changed her version, alleging that she had merely intended to scare Khomotsoane.

The court rejected both versions of her defence, finding them inconsistent with the evidence presented and the circumstances of the attack. Gumanda was consequently convicted of murder.

In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Amore Coetzee placed before the court evidence of the devastating impact of Khomotsoane's death on her family, particularly her minor children. Khomotsoane's husband testified about the profound emotional trauma experienced by the children following the loss of their mother.

The court heard that the children become distressed whenever they see a police vehicle because it reminds them of their mother. Their father further testified that he struggles to provide the same level of care, guidance, and emotional support that Khomotsoane had offered to the family.

In imposing sentence, the court considered the seriousness of the offence, the senseless loss of life, and the enduring impact of Khomotsoane's death on her loved ones.

The NPA welcomes the sentence, which reflects the gravity of the crime and underscores the criminal justice system's commitment to holding perpetrators of violent offences accountable.

Violent crimes have devastating consequences that extend beyond the immediate victim, leaving lasting scars on families and communities. 

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting violent offenders without fear, favour or prejudice and will continue to present strong, evidence-based cases to ensure justice for victims and their families.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Free State Division