The Mbombela High Court sentenced Sibusiso Lucky Mahlalela (45) to life imprisonment on 29 January 2026 for the murder of Pretty Fikile Mokone.
The crime occurred on 11 August 2024 at Sinqobile Village, Barberton. Mahlalela and Mokone were in a domestic relationship. After returning from a tavern, an argument began when Mokone accused Mahlalela of infidelity following a phone call.
Mahlalela assaulted Mokone with a wooden plank. Later, at home, she complained of severe headaches and planned to visit a clinic the next day.
While going to the clinic, Mahlalela left to fetch water for Mokone. He returned to find her unresponsive. He hid her body in nearby bushes and only reported the incident to police the following morning. He later confessed to the assault.
In court, Mahlalela pleaded not guilty. The State’s evidence, including photographs and a post-mortem report, proved Mokone died from injuries sustained in the assault.
The court found him guilty of murder.
Â
Â