JOHANNESBURG – The Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg has delivered a long-awaited judgment in the murder trial of Bafana Mahungela (23) – on Friday, convicting him of the murder of Sandton teacher Kirsten Kluyts. The court postponed the final judgment for today’s proceedings after delivering partial judgment last Friday.

Kluyts was murdered on 29 October 2023 while participating in a run at George Lea Park in Sandton. Evidence revealed she was pregnant at the time of her murder.

Magaboke Mohlatlole, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa in the Gauteng Division, Johannesburg, confirmed in a statement that the sentencing is set for 27 October. “The court found Mahungela guilty of murder, kidnapping, attempted rape, and defeating the administration of justice,” he said, adding that the NPA has welcomed the conviction.

“This conviction represents an important step towards accountability for the tragic killing of Kluyts and offers a measure of justice to her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones,” said Mahlatlole.

Mahlatlole said that State Advocates Siyabonga Futshana and Leisha Surendra led the prosecution and presented comprehensive evidence linking Mahungela to the offences. “Evidence related to his movements on the day of the incident, forensic and other corroborating evidence placed before the court. The state also called several expert witnesses whose testimony supported and strengthened the prosecution’s case. Through compelling circumstantial and forensic evidence, the state proved Mahungela’ s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said.

Mahlatlole said that the court further found that the video footage presented by the State had been properly authenticated and was therefore admissible. “In addition, the court relied on the testimony of a facial comparison expert, who identified Mahungela as the individual depicted in the footage presented before the court,” he said.

“The NPA commends the prosecution team for its meticulous preparation and diligent presentation of the State’s case, ensuring that all relevant evidence was properly placed before the court for consideration,” said Mahlatlole.

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