A Mamelodi son who lied that an intruder had killed his mother has been sentenced to life imprisonment for her murder.
Prince Amukelani Maluleka, 25, was convicted and sentenced for the murder of his 56-year-old Renolda Maluleka in the Pretoria High Court.
The court heard that on the morning of October 11, 2022, Maluleka had told his cousin different versions about how his mother died.
He first said she took her own and then said an intruder killed her.
The NPA said said the cousin found Maluleka standing next to his mother’s body.
The victim had been lying in a pool of blood.
The cousin immediately called the police, and Maluleka was arrested at the scene.
Maluleka pleaded not guilty and during the trial claimed an intruder entered the home and killed his mother.
However, State Prosecutor Vusimuzi Tshabalala presented compelling evidence, including testimony from family members, proving his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
During sentencing proceedings, the defence requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing Maluleka’s status as a young, first-time offender and the period spent in custody awaiting sentencing.
The State opposed this application. Advocate Tshabalala argued that Maluleka had shown no remorse and had previously made statements indicating that someone in the household would die.
He further emphasised that being a first offender constitutes ordinary circumstances and does not justify deviation from the prescribed sentence.
The court also heard that the emotional and psychological harm inflicted on the family is profound and irreversible. Advocate Tshabalala further highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in society, submitting that the court should send a strong message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
The deceased’s children and siblings expressed deep emotional trauma and ongoing distress, indicating that they continue to struggle to comprehend the motive behind the killing.
During the judgment, the court agreed that Maluleka had shown no remorse and committed a serious and violent crime.
