The Free State police welcomes the successful conviction and sentencing of 45-year-old Klaas Banyane for the murder of his girlfriend, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained after being set alight with petrol.
The incident occurred on 17 June 2024, at the couple’s residence in A Section, Botshabelo. It is alleged that Mr. Banyane doused his girlfriend with petrol and set her alight. Botshabelo SAPS members initially opened a case docket of attempted murder on 21 June 2024.
The victim was admitted to Pelonomi Hospital with severe burn wounds, but she passed away on 24 June 2024, leading to the charge being changed to murder. Following the incident, Klaas Banyane fled the scene after being confronted by community patrollers. Investigating Officer Sergeant Itumeleng Mara tirelessly followed up on his whereabouts, leading to his arrest in Verkeerdevlei.
Free State Policespokesperson Sergent Mahlomola Kareli said Banyane appeared before the Botshabelo Regional Court on a charge of murder and it was concluded.
Last week the murderer, Klaas Banyane was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment.