Tebogo Msimanga |
The Palm Ridge Magistrates Court sentenced Matome John Dikgale to nine years in prison for strangling his estranged wife, Nthabiseng Dikgale until she slipped into a coma and for violating a protection order.
Dikgale pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder, assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, on 1 October 2021.
Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said Nthabiseng had moved out of their marital home as a result of abuse at the hands of the accused and approached the family court for an order to stop the accused from entering her new place of residence.
“However, in September 2019, the accused ignored this order and gained unlawful entry into the estate where Nthabiseng resided after calling her several times, requesting to see her. He then assaulted and strangled her until she lost consciousness.”
Fortunately, Nthabiseng had summoned help from the estate’s security personnel, who arrived and found Dikgale strangling her.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) commended the regional court prosecutor Albert Dwera and investigating officer Captain Kekana for securing a successful prosecution that serves to deter like-minded individuals.
