Kimberley High Court Convicts Man in Warrenton Murder Case

• Court Sentences Butiki Maboitshega to 20 Years for Murder: The Kimberley High Court has sentenced 40-year-old Butiki Maboitshega to 20 years of direct imprisonment for the murder of his partner, marking a significant legal response to gender-based violence.
• Details of the Crime Scene and Initial Claim: The crime occurred on the night of 26 February 2024, after visiting a social security pay point, with Maboitshega initially claiming he found the victim already deceased before transporting her body home.
• Investigation and Evidence Leading to Conviction: A thorough police investigation, led by Detective Warrant Officer Thekiso Mokoroane, uncovered the truth behind the incident, resulting in Maboitshega’s arrest and conviction.

The Kimberley High Court has sentenced 40-year-old Butiki Maboitshega to 20 years direct imprisonment for the murder of his 35-year-old partner, bringing justice to her grieving family. The sentencing was handed down on Monday, 08 September 2025.

The case dates back from the night of 26 February 2024, when the couple visited the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) pay point in Warrenton. On their way home, the victim was killed between Warrenton and Ikhutseng. Maboitshega then transported her body to his residence in Ikhutseng.

Police were alerted by concerned neighbours and responded quickly. At first, Maboitshega claimed he had found the victim already dead, but a thorough investigation exposed the truth, leading to his arrest and eventual conviction.

In court, the evidence presented by Detective Warrant Officer Thekiso Mokoroane of the Warrenton Detective Unit proved decisive in securing the sentence.

Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, praised Mokoroane for his dedication and reiterated the police’s firm stance against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. She stressed that the South African Police Service will continue ensuring that those who commit such crimes face the full might of the law.