A man from North West, Itumeleng Mbombo, has been sentenced to an effective 15 years in prison for the murder of his ex-girlfriend’s eight-year-old son, Gosiame Ferris. The sentencing took place in the Atamelang Regional Court this week.
According to the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, Mbombo was found with the child’s body buried in a shallow grave under his bed in August 2023. The court heard that Mbombo had strangled the young boy to death before attempting to dispose of his body.
The discovery of Gosiame’s body was made after the police in Delareyville received a call regarding a shack in Sonderwater section, Vrisgewacht village. The post-mortem report confirmed that the cause of death was strangulation, and the body was buried by Mbombo.
In light of the evidence presented, Mbombo was declared unfit to possess a firearm. Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West, along with Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the investigating officer and the prosecution for securing a successful conviction.
They emphasized that this sentence would serve as a strong message to those who commit crimes, especially against the defenceless, that they will face severe prosecution and imprisonment.
This case highlights the importance of justice for victims and the commitment of law enforcement to ensure the safety and protection of the most vulnerable members of society. It is a reminder that acts of violence and harm against children will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.
