A Hibberdene man who fatally assaulted his girlfriend has been sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment by the Scottburgh Regional Court.

Mqwaqweni Phakamani (38) was sentenced earlier this week for the murder of Phakama Mdunyelwa (33).

The court heard that on November 30, 2025, Saps members responded to a murder scene at a compound in Hibberdene, where they found Mdunyelwa’s body lying on the grass outside.

She had sustained severe bruising all over her body. Police investigations, supported by witness statements, established that Phakamani had assaulted her with a stick. She died as a result of her injuries.

Phakamani was arrested shortly after the incident.

The investigation was led by Detective Sergeant Fikile Ngubane, while prosecutor Thanusha Govender handled the State’s case.

Bail was successfully opposed, and Phakamani remained in custody throughout the trial.

In addition to the 20-year prison sentence, the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

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