The Polokwane High Court has sentenced Stanley Madimetja Kekana (48) to life imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend, Tshepiso Aphane (30).

Kekana was sentenced on October 14. The attack on Aphane occurred at her homestead in Magatle Village, outside Marble Hall, on February 12, 2022.

Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the murder followed a heated argument between the couple.

Ledwaba said Kekana doused Aphane with paraffin before setting her alight. Two young children witnessed the incident.

Details around how the incident unfolded remain sketchy as police did not provide more information.

Charges upgraded to murder

After Aphane sustained burn injuries, Kekana allegedly poured water over her before fleeing the scene.
Aphane then went to her aunt’s nearby house to seek help and was taken to hospital.

According to Ledwaba, Kekana was arrested in Magatle Village a few days later while Aphane was still in hospital.

“A case of attempted murder was initially opened. The charge was later changed to murder after the victim succumbed to her injuries in hospital,” Ledwaba said.

Police condemn gender-based violence

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers said the life sentence sends a strong message that acts of violence against women would not be tolerated.

Scheepers indicated that the loss of life through gender-based violence remains a serious concern.

“It is particularly heartbreaking that this incident occurred in the presence of young children, who were exposed to a traumatic experience. We hope that this sentence will bring some measure of comfort to the bereaved family,” Scheepers said.

He urged couples to seek professional help when they experience challenges in their relationships.

The Observer sent a query to NPA Limpopo to find out how Kekana pleaded and whether there are declarations or orders against him. A response had not been received at the time of publication.