Man Gets Two Life Terms For Murder Of Lover And Her Sister

The High Court of South Africa; North West Division, sitting at the Klerksdorp Regional Court sentenced Tshediso Koetsi (44), to two life terms on two counts of murder, a cumulative 50 years for attempted murder, 3 years for arson and 3 years for malicious property damage. The conviction is related to an incident that occurred in Jouberton, near Klerksdorp, on 03 April 2021. Reports reveal that Koetsi, went to his lover’s house, Keitumetse Mjijwa (43), and demanded to speak to her after suspecting her of cheating.

He then left, but later returned on two more occasions and argued with Keitumetse, outside the house which was occupied by six children, and three adults. On the third occasion, on the same day, he came back and gained entry and started pouring some liquid substance inside the bedroom, which had occupants and set it alight. After this, Keitumetse and his sister Dineo Mjijwa (36), sustained burn injuries and later died in hospital.

Three of Dineo’s children aged between 5 and 13, also sustained burn injuries, while two more children also sustained injuries caused by the fire. Koetsi sustained minor burn injuries, which he showed to the police, claiming the deceased tried to burn him. He was taken to a nearby medical facility, to receive medical attention and was subsequently arrested after police investigations pointed him, as the offender.

Adv Xolisile Philisane argued that Koetsi’s offence was premeditated and urged the court not to deviate from the minimum prescribed sentence of life imprisonment. Judge Mahlangu, agreed with the state, and alluded to Koetsi’s actions as having a long-lasting negative effect on the children, as the experience will affect their lives forever. The Judge registered his disappointment at Koetsi’s remorseless posture and also alluded to the responsibility the criminal justice system has in dealing harshly with cases of gender-based violence and femicide.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari-Sekhaolelo, lauded Adv Philisane and Sergeant Itumeleng Moreo, for their collaboration in ensuring we obtain a successful conviction.

Enquiries:

Henry Mamothame

NPA Regional Spokesperson

North West Division

hmamothame@npa.gov.za

082 317 5731

Connect with Us