MAN GETS LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR FEMICIDE 

31 JULY 2025 

MAN GETS LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR FEMICIDE 

The Mtubatuba Regional Court has sentenced Nkosinathi Mtshali (29) to life imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to the murder of his partner in April 2024 in the Nibela area near Hluhluwe. Mtshali and the victim, Sanele Buthelezi (26), were in a relationship with each other. On 23 April 2024, Mtshali went to Buthelezi’s homestead, and they quarrelled. He threatened to kill her after she broke up with him. Mtshali, who was armed with a knife, stabbed her multiple times in her chest and neck while she was in her room. He then left her there, bleeding, and went to the police, where he handed himself over. He also handed over the blood-stained knife he had used to stab Buthelezi. 

In court, Prosecutor Phumlani Khoza handed in a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Sthembile Cebekhulu and compiled by one of Buthelezi’s brothers. In his statement, the man said that their family is devastated by the murder of their sister. He said that no apology tendered by Mtshali could ever make up for what he has done. He described Mtshali as disrespectful, saying that by committing this offence, he disrespected their home and their family. Mtshali had no right to set foot into their home and raise his hand against their sister. Mtshali was sentenced accordingly, and the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm. 

The NPA welcomes the successful finalisation of this matter. We remain committed to our fight against the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. We will continue to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and decisively. 

Issued by:

Natasha Ramkisson-Kara NPA 

Regional Spokesperson: KZN Division 

071 6700 229