Friendship turns deadly: Man sentenced to 15 years for rage murder
A 34-year-old man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for murdering his friend in a fit of rage with a pick handle during a gathering at his home.
Image: File / Henk Kruger / African News Agency / ANA
An argument between two friends in Upington turned deadly on August 10, 2024, when Lrikou Nomgojo fatally assaulted Lucky Dondolo with a pick handle.
According to police, the two men were part of a small gathering when a disagreement escalated. Witnesses, including a third friend, attempted to intervene, but Dondolo sustained fatal injuries. Emergency services responded, but Dondolo, 36, was declared dead at the scene.
Nomgojo, 34, was arrested shortly afterwards and remained in custody during the investigation. On July 30 2025, the Regional Court of Upington sentenced him to 15 years’ imprisonment for murder.
The swift response of law enforcement had led to Nomgojo's immediate arrest after the incident.
ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended Sergeant Bahedile Nkwadipo of the Upington Detectives’ Serious and Violent Crimes Unit for securing the conviction.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and violence, even among friends.
Major General Sebili also urged the public to seek non-violent ways of resolving conflict, saying SAPS remains committed to bringing justice to victims of violent crime.