IKAGENG MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER
10 October 2025
IKAGENG MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER
Potchefstroom, North West – The Potchefstroom Regional Court has convicted and sentenced 61-year-old Molefi Benjamin Ramohlokoane to 25 years’ imprisonment for the murder of his intimate partner, Maria Masego Fumba (36), committed in February 2025. The incident occurred on 11 February 2025 in Ikageng, near Potchefstroom.
Evidence presented in court revealed that Ramohlokoane and Fumba were in a relationship. On the day of the incident, Fumba was cooking for her 77-year-old neighbour when the accused entered the house in a fit of rage and jealousy and stabbed her multiple times with two knives. Fumba succumbed to her injuries, which included a fatal penetrating wound to the chest. Police were called to the scene, and a case of murder was opened. Ramohlokoane was arrested the same day and remained in custody until the conclusion of the trial. During the trial, the accused pleaded guilty to the charge of murder, read with the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act. In aggravation of sentence, Advocate Hester Pretorius argued that murder is among the most serious offences before the courts, particularly those committed within domestic relationships. She further emphasised the courts’ duty to impose deterrent sentences that protect the vulnerable and demonstrate society’s resolve to eradicate gender-based and domestic violence. In handing down the sentence, the court found substantial and compelling circumstances to deviate from life imprisonment and imposed a 25-year term of direct imprisonment.
Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended both the prosecution and the investigative teams for their diligence and dedication. She reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Issued by:
Sivenathi Gunya
Communications Officer
North West Division
National Prosecuting Authority
078 172 9367