The Polokwane Division of the High Court has sentenced Frank Rikhotso, 33, from Mbambamenchisi village to 18 years of direct imprisonment for the murder of his 24-year-old girlfriend in Nkowankowa location.
The incident occurred in September 2025 when Rikhotso and the victim became embroiled in a heated argument. Rikhotso strangled his girlfriend during the confrontation.
The South African Police Service said the case was assigned to Constable Rasendedzani Zwikhodo of the Ritavi Detectives Unit, who worked tirelessly to ensure justice.
Zwikhodo opposed bail throughout the proceedings, ultimately securing Rikhotso’s conviction and lengthy sentence.
The provincial police commissioner in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, commended Zwikhodo for his dedication and investigation.
“This sentence reflects our commitment to protecting women and ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence face the full might of the law,” Scheepers added.
- Frank Rikhotso, 33, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the murder of his 24-year-old girlfriend.
- The murder occurred in September 2025 in Nkowankowa location following a heated argument in which Rikhotso strangled his girlfriend.
- Constable Rasendedzani Zwikhodo of the Ritavi Detectives Unit led the investigation and opposed bail during the case proceedings.
- Rikhotso was convicted and received a lengthy sentence due to Zwikhodo’s efforts, as stated by the South African Police Service.
- Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers praised Zwikhodo and emphasized the commitment to combating gender-based violence.
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