THREE ACCUSED CONVICTED FOR THE MURDER OF UPINGTON BUSINESSWOMAN
17 July 2025
THREE ACCUSED CONVICTED FOR THE MURDER OF UPINGTON BUSINESSWOMAN
Upington, Northern Cape – The High Court of South Africa, Northern Cape Division, sitting as a circuit court in Upington, has convicted three individuals in connection with the brutal murder and robbery of 71-year-old retired businesswoman, Judith Redelinghuys. The incident occurred during the COVID-19 hard lockdown in June 2020 at her residence in a secure housing complex in Upington. The accused – Tumelo Mavlenter Sotho (Accused 1), Martatjie Engelbrecht (Accused 2), and Nkosinathi Ntombela (Accused 3) – faced charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, murder, and defeating the ends of justice.
After a thorough and complex trial, Accused 1 and Accused 3 were found guilty of both robbery with aggravating circumstances and murder. Accused 2 was convicted as an accessory after the fact to both crimes but acquitted on the charge of defeating the ends of justice. Redelinghuys was discovered murdered in her home on 30 June 2020. Her body was found in her swimming pool, with her hands bound behind her back. Several pieces of her uniquely designed jewellery were reported missing.
A breakthrough in the case came when Accused 3 sold one of the stolen rings. At the time, Accused 2 misled police by claiming the ring was hers, providing an affidavit to that effect, which initially led to Ntombela's release. However, further investigation revealed that the ring had been custom-made for the deceased in Cape Town, leading to Ntombela’s re-arrest and later, Engelbrecht’s arrest. Evidence also revealed that Accused 1, who worked in the same complex, had gained the trust of the victim over time, facilitating the planning and execution of the robbery.
The State, represented by Advocate Jaques Rosenberg and Advocate Terché Engelbrecht, presented compelling evidence, including witness testimonies and cellphone tracking data that placed the accused at the scene. The prosecution successfully opposed bail, and all three accused remained in custody throughout the trial. The matter has been postponed to 3–5 September 2025 for sentencing proceedings in the High Court, Upington Circuit.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the convictions and commends the prosecution team, SAPS investigators, and all witnesses for their dedication in securing justice in this heinous crime.
The NPA reiterates that the sanctity of human life is paramount, and it remains committed to pursuing justice vigorously to deter violent crimes, especially against the vulnerable.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson – Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539