LIFE SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO MURDERED INTIMATE PARTNER
25 SEPTEMBER 2025
LIFE SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO MURDERED INTIMATE PARTNER
Hopetown, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Northern Cape welcomes the life sentence imposed on Mohammed Raman (34), who was convicted of the brutal murder of his intimate partner, a 30-year-old woman, in Hopetown.
On 18 January 2024, the victim informed Raman that she no longer wished to continue their relationship. This led to an argument, which was initially diffused by the victim’s sister. However, after she left, neighbours heard renewed fighting. During the incident, the victim’s six-year-old daughter witnessed Raman strangle her mother to death. He then locked the child inside the house with her mother’s lifeless body before fleeing.
The little girl tragically spent the night lying next to her mother. Raman was later apprehended by a vigilant member of the public, who became suspicious after giving him a lift from Kimberley. Sensing something was wrong, the citizen drove him to the Christiana Police Station, where he was arrested. Raman remained in custody throughout the trial after his bail was denied.
The Hopetown Regional Court sentenced Raman to life imprisonment for murder and an additional three months’ imprisonment for contravening immigration laws, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of the Firearms Control Act.
In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Nicola van Niekerk argued for the maximum penalty, stressing that femicide is a pervasive crime in South Africa and that courts must send a strong message that such violence will not be tolerated. The court also considered a Victim Impact Statement compiled by Dineo Speak, which highlighted the devastating consequences of Raman’s actions on the child and family.
The NPA commends the vigilance of the community member whose swift action led to Raman’s arrest. The Authority reiterates its commitment to fighting gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), prosecuting hundreds of such matters daily to ensure justice for victims and the safety of communities.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539