SON SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERING FATHER
11 SEPTEMBER 2025
SON SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERING FATHER
Limpopo, South Africa – The Groblersdal Regional Court has sentenced Joseph Phaahla (28) from Leeuwfontein to life imprisonment for the murder of his father. The court further declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000. The accused pleaded guilty to the charge, admitting that on 17 October 2023 in Leeuwfontein, a verbal altercation with his father, Simon Mothoa (59), escalated. He grabbed a spade and struck his father multiple times on the head, resulting in the deceased’s immediate death. The police were called, and the accused was arrested at the scene.
During sentencing, State Prosecutor Sifiso Miya presented a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) compiled by court preparation officer Maggy Matome, along with a pre-sentence report. Both highlighted the profound impact of the deceased’s death on the family, particularly the accused’s stepmother and her children, who lost a protector and breadwinner. The state argued that the murder was brutal and unprovoked, and the accused showed no remorse, violating the deceased’s fundamental right to life. The prosecution concluded that there were no substantial or compelling reasons for the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment.
The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the sentence. Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Ivy Thenga said, “Human life is invaluable. We will continue to pursue these cases vigorously to serve as a deterrent to would-be murderers." She further commended Mr. Miya and all stakeholders involved for their contribution to achieving this outcome.
Issued by:
Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Limpopo Division
074 823 3608