Court Hands Down 20-Year Sentence to Convicted Rapist and Murderer
The Modimolle Regional Court has sentenced Markus Ndlovu (34) to 20 years in prison for the rape of a young woman and the brutal murder of his wife. The conviction was welcomed by the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Details of the Crimes
2016 Rape Case
On August 28, 2016, a 23-year-old woman was at a local tavern with her friend when Ndlovu approached her. He dragged her to an abandoned house, where he threatened her with a knife and raped her. The victim’s friend later arrived at the scene and helped her escape, causing Ndlovu to flee.
Despite initial efforts, Ndlovu remained at large until April 2023, when he was finally traced and arrested.
2021 Murder of His Wife
On May 21, 2021, Ndlovu called his mother and informed her that he had killed his 35-year-old wife. When she arrived at their home, she forced the door open and discovered the victim lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds.
She immediately contacted the police, and a murder case was opened. However, Ndlovu had fled Modimolle and evaded authorities until April 2023, when he was finally arrested.
Investigation and Trial
After his arrest, the Modimolle Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses Unit reopened both cases. The rape case had previously been withdrawn because the victim could not be found, but in 2024, investigators successfully traced her.
Warrant Officer Cicka Kruger led the investigation and managed to oppose Ndlovu’s bail application. Following a thorough investigation and a lengthy trial, the Modimolle Regional Court found him guilty on multiple charges.
Sentencing
On March 27, 2025, the court handed down the following sentences:
- Murder: 15 years imprisonment
- Rape: 10 years imprisonment
- Gender-Based Violence (GBV) under the Criminal Procedure Amendment Act: 5 years imprisonment
The court ruled that the sentences would run concurrently, resulting in an effective 20-year imprisonment.
Police and Community Response
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the investigators and legal teams for ensuring justice was served. She emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for crimes against women and children.
The sentencing of Markus Ndlovu sends a strong message about the consequences of gender-based violence and violent crimes in South Africa. Authorities continue to urge victims to report crimes and seek justice.