Bafana Mahungela Found Guilty of Kirsten Kluyts’ Murder
The Johannesburg High Court has found Bafana Mahungela guilty of the murder of Johannesburg teacher Kirsten Kluyts.
Mahungela was seen sitting alongside his father shortly before the court delivered its judgment, bringing the closely watched murder trial to a decisive stage.
The court convicted Mahungela on all charges against him, including murder, robbery, attempted rape and defeating the ends of justice.
Kluyts was killed while participating in a morning run at George Lea Park in Parkmore, Johannesburg, in October 2023. Her death sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about the safety of women in public spaces.
Mahungela denied murdering Kluyts during the trial. However, after considering the evidence presented by the State and the defence, the court found him guilty.
The matter has been postponed to 27 October 2026 for sentencing proceedings.
Mahungela will remain in custody pending the next court appearance.
