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Partner gets 20-year sentence for murdering woman after Sassa paypoint visit

Marlene Minopetros|Published

A man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for murdering his partner, a 35-year-old woman, after she collected a Sassa grant in Warrenton.

Image: File / Morgan Morgan / DALL-E / DFA / Illustration

A Warrenton murder accused, Butiki Maboitshega, has been sentenced to 20 years' direct imprisonment for murdering a 35-year-old woman. The Kimberley High Court convicted Maboitshega on Monday, September 8, following a thorough investigation by the Warrenton Detective unit.

The incident occurred on February 26 2024, when the victim and her partner visited the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) pay point in Warrenton. On their way home, the victim was murdered between Warrenton and Ikhutseng, and the accused transported her body to his residence in Ikhutseng.

Police responded swiftly after being alerted by concerned neighbours. The accused initially claimed he had found the victim already murdered. However, following an intensive investigation, he was arrested and charged with murder.

Detective Warrant Officer Thekiso Mokoroane led the investigation, gathering crucial evidence that led to Maboitshega's arrest and subsequent conviction. The Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended Mokoroane for his dedication and diligence in securing justice for the victim's family.

Major General Makgari emphasised the South African Police Service's (SAPS) commitment to tackling Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), ensuring perpetrators face the full force of the law. This sentence serves as a testament to SAPS's resolve in protecting victims and holding offenders accountable.