“Murder Case Dropped Against Man Who Stabbed Ex-Girlfriend 22 Times”

Premeditated Murder Case Nears Conclusion

The Durban High Court has heard the final arguments in the trial of Sphamandla Khumalo, who is accused of murdering his former partner, Nomfundo Msibi. The prosecution, led by Krishen Shah, argued that Khumalo had planned the brutal attack, which took place in the parking lot of the Gateway shopping centre on August 4, 2024.

Msibi, a 30-year-old mother of three, was stabbed at least 22 times, with an okapi knife found lodged in her body. The attack, captured on surveillance footage, was described in court as deliberate and ruthless.

Chilling Video Evidence

During the trial, the court was shown footage of the murder. It depicted an argument between Msibi and Khumalo before he launched a frenzied attack. The video showed him stabbing her multiple times, even after she had collapsed. He was seen attempting to slit her throat and continued his assault as she lay on the ground.

Judge Jacqueline Henriques noted that, while Khumalo admitted to stabbing Msibi, he denied that it was premeditated. However, Shah pointed out that Msibi had previously moved to KwaMashu to escape Khumalo, indicating that she feared for her safety.

Prosecution Argues Intent

Shah dismissed the idea that the attack was unplanned, emphasizing that Msibi was prevented from leaving during the argument. He also questioned why Khumalo had been carrying a weapon in the first place, reinforcing the claim that the killing was intentional.

Investigating officer Det-Const Boitumelo Phama testified that the brutal nature of the stabbing resembled the “slaughtering of an animal.” Judge Henriques concurred that there was no evidence to contradict this assessment.

A Meeting That Turned Deadly

The court previously heard that the couple had agreed to meet at the mall to settle a payment for a lay-by purchase made under Msibi’s name. However, the encounter turned deadly, leaving Msibi lying in a pool of blood while Khumalo fled the scene with another man.

Despite the overwhelming evidence, Khumalo, who is represented by Legal Aid attorney Phumelele Danisa, chose not to testify in his defense and pleaded not guilty to premeditated murder.

Awaiting Judgment

With the state closing its case, the court is set to deliver judgment on March 24. The brutal nature of the attack and the damning video evidence will likely play a significant role in the final verdict.

The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the ongoing issue of gender-based violence in South Africa. Msibi’s murder is yet another tragic reminder of the dangers many women face, even from those they once trusted.