Police in the Free State have welcomed the successful conviction and sentencing of the 45-year-old Klaas Banyane following the murder of his girlfriend.
Free State police spokesperson, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, explained that the murder occurred on 17 June 2024 at the couple’s home in A Section, Botshabelo. “It is alleged that Mr. Banyane doused his girlfriend with petrol and set her alight,” stated the spokesperson. “Botshabelo SAPS members initially opened a case docket of attempted murder on 21 June 2024.”
The victim was admitted at Pelonomi Hospital with severe burn wounds, succumbing to her injuries days later, which led to the original charge being upgraded to murder.
According to reports, Klaas Banyane fled the scene after being confronted by community patrollers. “Investigating Officer Sergeant Itumeleng Mara tirelessly followed up on his whereabouts, leading to his arrest in Verkeerdevlei,” added Kareli.
Banyane was successfully convicted in the Botshabelo Magistrate’s Court, and handed an 18-year prison sentence.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
warren@mahareng.co.za
