Key Points
- Abraham Molelekwa was sentenced to life in prison for killing his wife.
- The murder happened in front of their 10-year-old daughter.
- A thorough police investigation led to a successful prosecution.
A Pretoria court has sentenced 33-year-old Abraham Molelekwa to life imprisonment for murdering his wife, Maria Mnguni, with a screwdriver in front of their 10-year-old daughter on New Year’s Eve.
Tragic night turns deadly
The couple had been celebrating New Year’s Eve with a braai and drinks before heading to bed after midnight. According to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, an argument broke out between Molelekwa and Mnguni. In an attempt to escape the confrontation, Mnguni fled to their bedroom with their young daughter.
“The accused assaulted the victim before briefly leaving the room. Moments later, he returned with a screwdriver and stabbed her multiple times in the neck and chest,” van Dyk said.
Their terrified daughter witnessed the brutal attack and cried out for help. Molelekwa, however, threatened to stab her if she made any noise. He then locked the girl in the room, secured the house, and fled the scene.
Discovery and arrest
The following morning, the couple’s 17-year-old daughter returned home but could not get inside. “She called out, and her younger sister responded through the window, informing her that their father had killed their mother,” van Dyk said.
The teenager quickly sought help from neighbors, who broke down the door and discovered Mnguni’s lifeless body. The younger daughter had spent the entire night locked in the room, too scared to move.
Police were alerted, and they opened a murder case. Molelekwa, who had fled the scene, got rid of the evidence and sought refuge at his family home in Soshanguve.
“After realizing the severity of his actions, he confessed to his family. They then escorted him to the nearest police station, where he surrendered himself,” van Dyk said.
Justice served through thorough investigation
The case was handed to Warrant Officer Lourens Lemmer of the Wonderboompoort SAPS Detective Service. Lemmer’s detailed investigation led to Molelekwa’s successful prosecution and life imprisonment sentence.
Major General Samuel Thine commended Lemmer for his dedication and professionalism in presenting the case and evidence in court.
“His meticulous investigation ensured justice for the victim and her family,” Thine said.
