Sandton teacher murder: Bafana Mahungela convicted over Kirsten Kluyts’ death
A High Court judge relies on facial recognition and video footage to convict the 23-year-old over the 2023 park killing.
Bafana Mahungela has been convicted in the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg of the murder of Sandton teacher Kirsten Kluyts.
The 23-year-old was found guilty of murder, kidnapping, attempted rape and defeating the administration of justice following the killing of Kluyts (34) while she was running in George Lea Park on October 29, 2023.
Read more: Case against alleged murderer of Delta Park High School teacher moves to the High Court
State Advocates Siyabonga Futshana and Leisha Surendra led the prosecution and presented evidence linking Mahungela to the offences. This included video footage, facial comparison expert testimony, and corroborating forensic evidence.
In delivering judgment, the court noted that although the State’s case was largely based on circumstantial evidence, the evidence was considered cumulatively and pointed conclusively to the accused’s guilt.
The court further found that video footage presented by the State had been properly authenticated and was admissible. A facial comparison expert identified Mahungela as the individual depicted in the footage.
Also read: Kirsten Kluyts Murder: A timeline of events
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng Division communications officer Magaboke Mohlatlole welcomed the outcome.
“The NPA commends the prosecution team for its meticulous preparation and diligent presentation of the State’s case, ensuring that all relevant evidence was properly placed before the court for consideration.”
The matter has been postponed to October 27 for sentencing proceedings.
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