Woman Handed Three Life Sentences for Killing Boyfriends and Her Son

In a shocking case that highlights the extremes of human behavior, Gauteng resident Ncumisa Selani has been sentenced to three life terms in prison for the murders of her two boyfriends and one of her sons. This tragic story spans several years and exposes the devastating consequences of betrayal, unresolved conflict, and unaddressed trauma.

### **A Betrayal Turns Deadly**
In 2016, Ncumisa suspected her Malawian boyfriend, Michael Changisa, of infecting her with HIV. Feeling angry and betrayed, she enlisted the help of another boyfriend, Michael Phiri, a Zimbabwean national, to carry out a plan to kill Changisa. Phiri executed the murder, and together they buried Changisa’s body in the yard of Ncumisa’s home.

**From Partner to Victim**
The following year, Phiri moved into Ncumisa’s home, where she lived with her two sons, aged 17 and 10. However, their relationship soon became toxic, with Phiri reportedly abusing Ncumisa. Seeking to escape the cycle of violence, she confided in her 17-year-old son, and the two conspired to kill Phiri. After his murder, his body was buried in the same location, on top of Changisa’s grave.

### **A Family Torn Apart**
By 2018, the trauma of these murders began to affect Ncumisa’s 18-year-old son. Struggling with the psychological burden, he turned to drugs and began blackmailing his mother for money, threatening to expose her crimes to the authorities. Desperate to silence him, Ncumisa resorted to killing her own son and burying him atop the two other victims in the same grave.

### **A Witness Comes Forward**
Her youngest son, aged 14, witnessed the horrific events and carried the burden of the truth. In 2020, the boy fell ill, and Ncumisa sought help from a traditional healer. During the consultation, the son revealed the murders, believing they were linked to his illness. The healer alerted the police, leading to Ncumisa’s arrest.

**Justice Served**
In court, the full extent of Ncumisa’s crimes came to light. She was sentenced to three life terms, a punishment reflecting the gravity of her actions. The case underscores the importance of accountability and highlights the devastating consequences of unresolved trauma and unchecked emotions.

**The Aftermath and Public Reaction**
This story has sparked widespread shock and discussion. Many question how such events could have occurred over several years without intervention. The psychological impact on the surviving son, who lived through these traumatic experiences, remains a critical concern.

A 47-year-old woman, Pamela Ncumisa Selani, has been sentenced to three life terms in prison for murdering her son and two lovers. She was also given an additional 5 years for defeating the administration of justice. The murders occurred in 2016 and 2017, and involved Selani… pic.twitter.com/b6Gkf3DM3H

— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) June 25, 2024

### **Reflections on a Tragic Case**
The case of Ncumisa Selani raises profound questions about the darker aspects of human behavior, the consequences of betrayal, and the devastating effects of unaddressed trauma. It also underscores the importance of community vigilance and mental health support in preventing such tragedies.

What are your thoughts on this harrowing case? Share your opinions as we reflect on the lessons it offers.