Woman gets 30 years for the kidnapping & brutal murder of 4-year-old Keeya Mbulawa! The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has sentenced 34-year-old Nonhlelelwa Matsebula for the kidnapping and murder of four-year-old Keeya Mbulawa in Soweto, Gauteng. The tragic incident, which shook the local community, ended in justice as Matsebula was handed down a lengthy sentence on Wednesday.
Sentencing and Parole Conditions
Matsebula has been ordered to serve at least 20 years of her imposed sentence before she can be considered for parole. Her sentencing marks the conclusion of a case that has deeply traumatized the family of the young victim and left the community in shock.
Relationship Between Matsebula and the Victim
Reports indicate that Matsebula, believed to be a Swati national, had stayed in the same yard as Keeya and her mother, Nolukhanyo (Khanyi) Mbulawa, in Protea Glen, Soweto. This close proximity meant that Matsebula was familiar with the family, making the crime even more disturbing.
Woman gets 30 years for the kidnapping
According to Phindi Mjonondwane, the spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng, Matsebula pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging her role in the horrific act.
How the Crime Unfolded
The tragic events took place on January 13, 2024, when Matsebula joined a group of children playing in the yard. Her intentions were far from innocent—she had planned to kidnap Keeya and extort money from her parents.
To subdue the child, Matsebula gave Keeya juice laced with sleeping tablets, ensuring she would fall unconscious. She then took further drastic steps to prevent the child from making noise—she tied a cable around Keeya’s neck and stuffed a sock into her mouth before placing her inside a suitcase.
The Mother’s Desperate Search and Matsebula’s Escape
Keeya’s mother, Khanyi Mbulawa, quickly noticed her daughter’s sudden absence and began frantically searching for her. When she approached Matsebula, she found her attempting to leave with a suitcase.
Realizing she had been caught, Matsebula abandoned the suitcase and fled the scene.
Sadly, Keeya’s life could not be saved—she died on January 17, 2024, from complications related to suffocation caused by the cable tie.
Arrest and Confession
After disappearing for two weeks, Matsebula was eventually arrested on January 29, 2024. Authorities managed to track her down after her photo was widely circulated on social media.
Following her capture, Matsebula admitted to the crime, confirming that her actions were both wrongful and unlawful.
Impact on the Community
The horrific nature of the crime has left the Soweto community deeply shaken. Many residents expressed their grief and outrage, particularly given that Matsebula was someone known to the family.
The case has once again highlighted the importance of child safety and raised concerns about crimes committed by people in close proximity to victims.
Justice Served
The sentencing of Nonhlelelwa Matsebula brings some closure to Keeya Mbulawa’s family, although no punishment can truly compensate for the loss of a young, innocent life.
While Matsebula will spend decades behind bars, Keeya’s family and community will continue to mourn the bright future stolen from the little girl.
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