Even though he was not present in court, an ex-cop was convicted of premediated murder yesterday for shooting his wife in front of their house in Stonehenge, Mbombela in May 2020.

After Mugiyo Ulrich Mabunda shot and killed his wife, Tebogo Mabunda, he shot himself four times.

Judge Cassim Moosa proceeded with the matter in the Mpumalanga High Court sitting in Mbombela, although Mabunda did not attend proceedings, and convicted him in his absence.

This was not the first time Mugiyo did not appear for court. On October 11, 2021, the matter was postponed for two days as the accused was said to be ill and unable to attend.

After the judge’s verdict, Tebogo’s family and friends had mixed emotions; some shouted with joy and some were crying. Outside the court, as with previous court sessions, family, friends, the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union, Mpumalanga ANC Women’s League and Bella’s Athletics Club picketed in support of the victim.

Mabunda had been granted R10 000 bail. He pleaded guilty on October 8, 2021.

Mpumalanga NPA spokesperson, Monica Nyuswa, says the matter is postponed to August 12 in the same court for sentencing.

“The accused was convicted in absentia. His bail was cancelled and a warrant of arrest has been issued for him to be rearrested.”