In a landmark ruling that highlights the severity of gender-based violence in South Africa, the Ixopo Regional Court has sentenced 24-year-old Baphumelele Zulu to two life sentences for the horrific murders of Amanda Zulu and Minenhle Buthelezi. The tragic incident occurred in July 2022 in the Ngwagwane area near Creighton, KwaZulu-Natal. Zulu also received an additional eight years in prison for escaping lawful custody during the investigation.
The victims, both Grade 12 pupils, were living in a rented home within a local homestead to be closer to their school. Their future was cut short on the night of July 30, 2022, when they were violently attacked. Amanda Zulu was discovered bleeding outside the house and was rushed to the hospital. Sadly, despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. The body of Minenhle Buthelezi was found later in a ditch nearby, indicating she had tried to flee but was fatally assaulted.
Investigations revealed that both girls suffered severe head trauma inflicted with an unknown object. Following the murders, Zulu was apprehended after being handed over to the police by a family member. While in police custody, he briefly escaped during a crime scene pointing-out procedure but was swiftly rearrested the same day.
During the trial, State Prosecutor Siphosenkosi Dlamini presented compelling evidence, including testimonies from residents of the homestead and police officers involved in the investigation. DNA analysis linked Zulu to the crime scene, and witnesses confirmed the circumstances under which the victims were found.
The escape incident was also brought before the court, with the two officers who were present during Zulu’s attempted getaway testifying against him. Their account solidified the State’s position, adding further weight to the already damning case.
During sentencing, the court heard emotional statements from the victims’ families. Amanda’s father described the unbearable pain his family has endured since the loss of his daughter. Similarly, Minenhle’s aunt shared how the elderly grandmother—who had raised Minenhle—was so deeply affected that her health had deteriorated significantly. Both families expressed confusion over the motive, highlighting that the attack was unprovoked and that Zulu showed no remorse throughout the proceedings.
The court delivered a sentence of life imprisonment for each count of murder and an additional eight years for the escape, to be served concurrently. Effectively, Zulu will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the verdict, emphasizing its commitment to justice for victims of violent crime. “This sentence underscores the seriousness with which the justice system views crimes of this nature,” said a spokesperson. “The accused robbed two innocent young women of their future, and today, justice has been served.”
This case stands as a sobering reminder of the continued fight against violence targeting women and children and the importance of holding perpetrators fully accountable.
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