Breyten High Court Delivers Verdict in High-Profile Case
The Breyten High Court has sentenced Richard Do Santos, a 35-year-old Mozambican national, to life imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend, Chrisandra Nxumalo, and an additional six months for contravening the Immigration Act.
The sentences will run concurrently, effectively resulting in life imprisonment for Do Santos.
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The tragic incident occurred on December 3, 2022, in Volkrust, where the couple had been residing together for three years.
The court heard that on the night of the murder, Do Santos and Nxumalo were at a local tavern when an argument broke out after Do Santos accused Nxumalo of kissing another person.
The argument escalated, leading Do Santos to assault Nxumalo with a large concrete stone, causing fatal injuries. Nxumalo was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The police investigation revealed that Do Santos was residing in South Africa illegally, further complicating the legal proceedings.
During the trial, Do Santos pleaded guilty to the charges of murder and contravention of the Immigration Act.
State Advocate Amos Mtshweni addressed the court, emphasizing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa.
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He highlighted that the killing of women by their partners has become alarmingly frequent, depriving many women of their futures.
Mtshweni stressed the devastating impact on the families left behind, particularly in this case, where Nxumalo’s three minor children are now under the care of their grandmother.
The victim impact statement, presented by the deceased’s mother and facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Faith Masango, detailed the profound pain and trauma inflicted on the family.
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The statement revealed that one of Nxumalo’s children had attempted suicide, underscoring the severe emotional toll of the crime.
In her judgment, Presiding Officer Judge Lindiwe Vukeya considered the gravity of the offense, the circumstances of the accused, and the broader interests of justice. She found no substantial or compelling reasons to deviate from the mandatory minimum life sentence for murder.
Consequently, Do Santos was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and an additional six months for contravention of the Immigration Act, with the sentences to be served concurrently.
This verdict sends a strong message against gender-based violence and highlights the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice for victims and their families.
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