Hluhluwe man gets life for murder of girlfriend

The Mtubatuba Regional Court has sentenced Nkosinathi Mtshali (29) to life behind bars after he pleaded guilty to the April 2024 murder of his partner.

The murder occurred in the Nibela area near Hluhluwe. Mtshali and the victim, Sanele Buthelezi (26) were in a relationship.

Welcoming the sentencing, KZN National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said, on the day of the murder, Mtshali went to Buthelezi’s homestead and they quarrelled.

“He threatened to kill her after she broke up with him. Mtshali, who was armed with a knife, stabbed her multiple times in the chest and neck while she was in her room. He then left her there, bleeding, and went to the police, where he handed himself over. He also handed over the blood-stained knife he had used to stab Buthelezi,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

In a victim impact statement compiled by one of Buthelezi’s brothers, he said their family is devastated by the murder of their sister.

“He said no apology tendered by Mtshali could ever make up for what he has done. He described Mtshali as disrespectful, saying, by committing this offence he disrespected their home and their family. Mtshali had no right to set foot in their home and raise his hand against their sister,” added Ramkisson-Kara.

Mtshali was sentenced accordingly, and the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

“The NPA welcomes the successful finalisation of this matter. We remain committed to our fight against the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. We will continue to ensure justice is delivered swiftly and decisively,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

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