Ramakavhi's killer gets 20 years

Phillip “Jomo” Munzhelele of Tshino in Vuwani, who was arrested in December 2019 for brutally murdering his 31-year-old girlfriend, Portia Ramakavhi of Ha-Mutsha, was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment by the Sibasa Regional Court on 28 September.

At the time of the murder, Munzhelele had allegedly accused Ramakavhi of cheating on him. A heated argument ensued at the accused’s home, after which he stabbed and chopped her with a sharp object. Ramakavhi died on the scene.

An angry mob arrived and started chasing the suspect. When he was caught, they started assaulting him. The police were called and Munzhelele was arrested and charged with murder.

Ramakavhi had two young daughters, aged 10 and 6 years. Munzhelele is the father of the younger girl. The late Ramakavhi had obtained two protection orders against the suspect prior to the incident.

In January 2020, Munzhelele was released on R10 000 bail, to the utter dismay of Ramakavhi’s family, who were convinced that the court was being too lenient. The uncle of the late Ramakavhi, Mr Khaukanani Mulovhedzi, said that they were disappointed because the government preached about the fight against the killing of women and children and abuse, while this murder suspect was released on bail.

On 28 September 2021, however, a verdict was reached and Munzhelele was found guilty and sentenced to 20 years behind bars.

The police hailed the sentence as a deterrent, and many believe that the justice system had sent out a strong warning that crime does not pay.

“We are extremely happy with the outcome of this case. We feel that justice has been served and the right message was sent out to the community,” said Limpopo police spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo after the verdict.

Date:08 October 2021

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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