TWO MEN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER
10 December 2025
TWO MEN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER
Mothibistad, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the conviction and sentencing of Nonie Michael Brown (38) and Boikanyo Bles (35) by the Mothibistad Regional Court for the murder of Itumeleng Mabihi. The two were charged with one count of murder, read with Section 51(1) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997, based on common purpose, which exposed them to the possibility of life imprisonment.
The incident occurred on 28 March 2013 in Eiffel Village. The accused had travelled from Kuruman and spent the day drinking before going to an informal tavern to buy traditional beer. An argument broke out between them, the deceased and the deceased’s friend, Thabiso, linked to previous disputes. During the altercation, Brown stabbed both the deceased and Thabiso with a broken brandy bottle. Thabiso managed to escape, but accused Bles struck the deceased with a fist, causing him to fall. The two then jointly assaulted him with fist-sized stones, repeatedly striking him as he lay defenceless. Despite pleas from bystanders and the tavern owner, the attack continued until the accused stopped on their own. Police were called to the scene, and both men were arrested and charged. They were convicted on 09 December 2025.
In aggravation of sentence, Regional Court Prosecutor Bernice Bronkhorst-Oor argued that the accused only ceased their attack once they believed the deceased was dead. She urged the Court to apply the minimum-sentencing framework, highlighting that deviations must be approached with caution and in line with the intent of the legislature. The Court accepted the State’s submissions and sentenced both men to 20 years’ direct imprisonment. They were also declared unfit to possess firearms in terms of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
The NPA emphasises that the right to life is a fundamental and non-derogable constitutional right. The unlawful taking of a life is a serious criminal offence and a direct violation of this right. As the festive season approaches, the public is urged to respect the rule of law, resolve disputes peacefully, and avoid high-risk situations. Communities are encouraged to act responsibly and safeguard their lives and the lives of others so that the holiday period may be observed in peace, safety, and dignity. The NPA reiterates its commitment to combating violent crime and ensuring accountability for acts that threaten the safety and dignity of communities.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539