| 2024/05/04 |
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Media Statement GQEBERHA – Crimes of passion are often fuelled by jealousy and anger which is driven by aggression. In some cases it could also affect innocent bystanders that crosses the suspect’s path or come into their way. Sonwabo Xola (45) was such a suspect, after his ex-girlfriend (37) started dating her new boyfriend (47). The suspect’s anger got to the point where he committed several assaults and attempted murders which eventually led to murder. On 14 February 2022, the accused attacked the 47-year-old male and stabbed him in his leg, arm and left eye. As a result of the attack, the victim lost an eye. An attempted murder case was opened at SAPS Despatch. On 8 March 2022, the suspect forced his way into the home of his ex-girlfriend, in Khayamnandi and stabbed her in her left arm before fleeing to Kwazakele. An assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm case was opened at SAPS Despatch. The suspect had been evading police since the attacks. The accused was also dating Phumeza Cynthia Stephan, 46 years old, however due to his violent nature, she broke up with him and started dating someone else. On 15 January 2023 at about 22:30 the accused forced his way into a house in Dr Joe Maroko Street, Khayamnandi seeking revenge on Ms Stephan and her new boyfriend. He proceeded to the bedroom and attacked a 57-year-old man, by stabbing him several times. After the victim’s wife started shouting, the accused realised that he was in the wrong house and left. He then went and forced open the front door at a house in Dr Joe Maroko Street. While Ms Stephan’s boyfriend attempted to stop the accused from attacking her, she managed to flee from the house. The accused, after stabbing the boyfriend, pursued after Ms Stephan and repeatedly stabbed her. She passed away on the scene. The accused was apprehended by the community and handed over to police. Murder, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm cases were opened by SAPS Despatch. The investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Rohan Nel investigated all of the above cases and on 2 May 2024,the accused Sonwabo Xola was sentenced to an effective to 30 years imprisonment.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Maj Gen Vuyisile Ncata welcomed the sentencing and applauded the excellent investigation. He added that, ‘in securing a 30-year sentencing for the accused in the tragic murder of his ex-girlfriend as well as the other crimes , we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to justice and to combatting gender-based violence. The SAPS stands resolute in our dedication to protecting individuals from such heinous acts and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.’
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