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Sonwabo Xola, a 45-year-old man, embarked on a violent spree that left a trail of assault, attempted murder, and ultimately, the tragic murder of his ex-girlfriend. The incidents, which spanned from February 2022 to January 2023, were marked by a series of brutal stabbings. The culmination of these violent acts led to the death of Phumeza Cynthia Stephan.
Xola was sentenced to an effective 30 years' imprisonment for murder, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm on May 2.
According to Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge, on February 14, 2022, the suspect assaulted a 47-year-old man, stabbing him in the leg, arm, and left eye, leading to the loss of the eye.
SAPS Despatch opened a case of attempted murder.
"On March 8, 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," said Beetge.
Beetge added that the suspect had been evading police since the attacks.
Beetge revealed the accused was also dating Phumeza Cynthia Stephan. However, due to his violent nature, she broke up with him and started dating someone else.
"On January 15, 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," Beetge explained. After the victim’s wife started shouting, the accused realised that he was in the wrong house and left.
Beetge further explained, "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 Ms. Stephan and repeatedly stabbed her."
She passed away at the scene.
"The accused was apprehended by the community and handed over to police," Beetge concluded.
Murder, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm cases were opened by SAPS Despatch and, on 2 May 2024,the accused Xola was sentenced to an effective to 30 years imprisonment.
The investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Rohan Nel, investigated all the above cases.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General 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.’
