The Wolmaransstad Magistrates’ Court sentenced Dodo Oliphant (32) to 10 years’ imprisonment on Thursday, 16 August 2024.

Oliphant’s sentencing stems from his arrest on Saturday, 02 November 2019, for assaulting and stabbing his girlfriend to death. The court heard that Oliphant got angry after he visited and found his girlfriend, then aged 28, with another boyfriend at her residence in Tswelelang Township, outside Wolmaransstad. The convict stabbed the boyfriend who ran away. He then assaulted and stabbed his girlfriend, Karabo Metswamere with a knife on the upper body and left her bleeding to chase the other boyfriend. The neighbours who witnessed the incident called Karabo’s family.

The family alerted the police who found Karabo. She was transported to hospital. The police arrested Oliphant at Tswelelang Township and charged him with attempted murder. The case was later changed to murder after Karabo died in hospital. Oliphant has been behind bars ever since his arrest and was also charged with assault w
ith intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH). Upon sentencing the accused, the court further declared him unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000).

The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded Wolmaransstad Detectives for the sterling job and dedication they displayed to ensure that Oliphant was arrested and convicted. He said he is pleased that the sentence, which was imposed during Women’s Month, will serve as an indication to criminals that Gender Based Violence (GBV) will not be condoned.

Source : South African Police Service