MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER OF GIRLFRIEND

MOGWASE, NORTH WEST – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured a life imprisonment sentence against 38-year-old Benjamin Moya for the murder of his girlfriend.

The sentence was handed down by the Mogwase Regional Court and stems from an incident that occurred on 25 May 2025 at Makoshong Village.

The court heard that on the evening of the incident, Moya visited the deceased, who was his girlfriend at the time. Upon arrival, he found her in the company of a male friend. When the friend became aware of Moya’s presence, he fled the scene.

Moya subsequently assaulted the deceased using clenched fists, booted feet, a sjambok and a builder’s spirit level. The evidence further revealed that he instructed her to accompany him to the residence of another woman with whom he was romantically involved, as he regarded both women as his wives, to explain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The accused continued assaulting the deceased while en route to the other woman’s residence. Upon arrival, he requested that both women accompany him to the wife of his best friend, whom he had allegedly found with the deceased. Before they could proceed, it became apparent that the deceased had sustained serious injuries and was bleeding. She was rushed for medical attention but was declared dead on the same day.

Faced with overwhelming evidence against him, Moya pleaded guilty to the charge of murder.

The court further heard that Moya was released on bail on 15 January 2026 and remained on bail until the finalisation of the matter.

In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Joseph Makwe highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa and argued that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The court agreed with the State's submissions and sentenced Moya to life imprisonment. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Director of Public Prosecutions welcomed the sentence and commended Joseph Makwe and Sergeant Unathi Tiem of the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their dedication and efforts in ensuring that justice was served.

The DPP reiterated that the right to life is a fundamental constitutional right that must be protected and upheld. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to combating gender-based violence and ensuring accountability for perpetrators, while securing justice for victims and their families.

Issued by:

Lindiwe Mabasa

NPA Communication Officer