A Limpopo man who killed his girlfriend because she wanted to end the relationship has been jailed for an effective 20 years behind bars.
Nathaniel Molatelo Mokgehle, 48, was jailed for the June 2025 murder of his girlfriend, Mokgadi Julia Mohlaela.
Mokgehle was sentenced in the Polokwane High Court this week.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said Mokgehle was also sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for malicious damage to property, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently.
Ledwaba said the court heard that the victim had previously opened a case of malicious damage to property against Mokgehle.
“At the time of the murder, the accused was still attending court proceedings related to that case,” he said.
The fatal incident occurred on June 8, 2025, at about 4 pm at the accused’s mother’s residence in Sekonye village.
“The deceased was at the house speaking to the accused’s mother about ending the relationship due to alleged abuse,” Ledwaba said.
During the confrontation, Mokgehle produced a knife and repeatedly stabbed Mohlaela.
“She attempted to flee the house, but the accused chased after her and continued stabbing her until she collapsed,” Ledwaba said.
“The accused’s mother attempted to intervene but was unable to stop the attack and called community members for assistance.”
Mohlaela had already succumbed to her injuries by the time help arrived. Emergency Medical Services later certified her dead at the scene.
Ledwaba said following the attack, Mokgehle fled.
He said the investigating officer, Sergeant Vhusani Eric Tshihanyise of the Botlokwa Detectives, immediately launched a manhunt with the assistance of community members.
Later that night, Mokgehle contacted the investigating officer, indicating that he wished to surrender but feared retaliation from community members.
Arrangements were made for him to safely hand himself over, and he was subsequently arrested.
Mokgehle made his first appearance in the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court on June 9, 2025. His bail application was opposed and he remained in custody.
Ledwaba said the matter was later transferred to the Polokwane High Court, where the trial began on March 2, 2026, and concluded on March 4, resulting in his conviction and sentencing.
Meanwhile, Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the investigating officer for a diligent investigation that ensured justice for the victim.
IOL News
Simon Majadibodu
iol.co.za
