Background
Thabo Ntokozo Nzimande, a 33‑year‑old man from Pinetown, lived with his 80‑year‑old grandmother, Beatrice de Lange. She was the only relative who continued to support him after his struggle with drugs and alcohol caused him to drop out of college.
What Happened on June 7, 2024
According to the state, Nzimande stabbed his grandmother, cut off her head, and then kicked the severed head like a football. He was arrested and charged with murder.
Nzimande’s Version of Events
Memory Loss Claim
Nzimande told the Durban High Court that he cannot remember anything from that night. He said he does not recall stabbing Beatrice, beheading her, or playing with her head.
Emotional Reaction
As a mitigation witness, he explained that Beatrice was the person who always stood by him. He said, “I still don’t believe she’s gone. I can’t come to terms with the fact that she’s not here anymore and I’ll never see her again.”
Family Support and Conditions
Beatrice had agreed to let Nzimande stay in her granny flat on the condition that he attend rehabilitation and submit to regular drug tests. In the days before the killing, a drug test came back inconclusive, which disappointed her.
Who Helped Him?
– His aunt, Ziningi Myaka, regularly drove both of them to rehab appointments from Greytown.
– Beatrice paid for his first rehab program; Myaka’s medical aid covered two later stays.
– Nzimande said he was raised by his maternal family, who also financed his higher education before his substance abuse led him to quit school.
Legal Proceedings
Cross‑Examination
Prosecutor Nadira Moosa asked whether Nzimande had shown remorse to Beatrice’s relatives. He replied that he could not admit to something he does not remember. However, he asked his cousin, Zakhona Shelembe, to pass along his apologies and say he never intended to hurt anyone.
Sentencing Delay
Acting Judge Mpumelelo Sibisi postponed sentencing until the end of September to allow a probation officer’s report to be prepared.
Where Does He Plan to Go?
When asked by his legal‑aid lawyer, Barrister Musa Chiliza, Nzimande said he intends to live with his paternal family after serving his sentence. He added that his cousin Zakhona has supported him since his arrest.
Conclusion
The case highlights a tragic clash between a young man’s addiction struggles and the unwavering care of an elderly relative. While Nzimande claims he has no memory of the violent act, the court heard heartfelt testimony about his grandmother’s love and the family’s efforts to help him recover. The upcoming probation report will help the judge decide on an appropriate sentence, balancing accountability with the possibility of rehabilitation.
