In a landmark ruling, the Sterkspruit Regional Court sentenced 20-year-old Lelethu Matheza to life imprisonment for the gruesome murder of 22-year-old Sibongile Mankayi.
The crime, which took place in the Esilindini Administrative area in Sterkspruit, has left the community reeling and highlighted the persistent scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
On October 8 2023, Mankayi’s lifeless body was discovered in a pool of blood. It had multiple stab wounds and severe mutilation to her genital area. The brutality of the attack sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.
Confessed to murder, mutilation
That same day, Matheza was apprehended after confessing to the crime and showing police the murder weapon. Forensic evidence later confirmed the presence of the victim’s blood on both the weapon and Matheza’s clothing, sealing his fate.
During the trial, which concluded on March 26 2025, prosecutor Anele Magible led compelling evidence. The evidence included a post-mortem report, photos from the crime scene, and the heart-wrenching testimony of Mankayi’s mother.
The court heard how the murder devastated the family. Their grief was compounded with the trauma of the mutilation. The prosecution argued that the crime was not only a senseless act of violence but also a stark example of the broader crisis of GBV plaguing the nation.
Intoxication plea rejected
The court dismissed Matheza’s claims of intoxication as a mitigating factor. It found no evidence of premeditation, but emphasised the gravity of the offence. In delivering the life sentence, the court aimed to send a clear message: perpetrators of such heinous acts will face the full might of the law.
Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Barry Madolo, welcomed the ruling.
“This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of GBV will face the full might of the law. The NPA remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims and holding offenders accountable.”
He praised the prosecution team, investigators, and stakeholders for their dedication in securing the conviction.
“It is through such partnerships that we restore hope and dignity to survivors and their families.”
