Zimbabwean Man Jailed 15 Years in South Africa for Killing Countryman in Phone Dispute

Pretoria – A Zimbabwean national has been sentenced to 15 years in prison in South Africa after fatally striking a fellow Zimbabwean with a stone during a dispute over a missing mobile phone. Leonard Khoza (42) was convicted by the Pretoria North Magistrates’ Court for the murder of Aluwisi Verengere, who died after being hit on the head during an altercation on 4 February 2023. The court also imposed an additional two-year sentence for immigration violations, with both sentences set to run concurrently. Khoza will be deported to Zimbabwe after serving his term.

The incident occurred behind a Virgin Active facility in Wonderboom, Pretoria, where a group of Zimbabwean nationals had gathered. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), tensions escalated after Verengere realised his phone was missing and asked to search those present. While some agreed, Khoza and his two brothers reportedly refused.

“Following their refusal, Verengere indicated that he would consult a traditional healer to identify and bewitch the person responsible,” the NPA said.

A confrontation ensued, during which Khoza allegedly picked up a stone and threw it at Verengere. The rock struck the victim on the head, causing fatal injuries. He was declared dead at the scene.

Khoza evaded arrest for nearly six months before being apprehended on 4 August 2023. During the trial, he pleaded not guilty and claimed he was not in South Africa at the time of the incident. However, the State presented eyewitness testimony that contradicted his defence. Regional Court Prosecutor Lufuno Manena led the case, calling witnesses who placed Khoza at the scene and described the attack.

During sentencing, the defence argued for leniency, citing Khoza’s lack of prior convictions. However, the prosecution opposed the request, emphasising the seriousness of the offence.

“The offence was serious and Khoza showed no remorse, as he continued to deny responsibility,” the NPA said.

Magistrate Pieter Nel agreed, finding no compelling reasons to deviate from the prescribed sentence.

The court ordered that Khoza be deported to Zimbabwe upon completion of his sentence.

The NPA welcomed the ruling, saying it reflects the justice system’s commitment to holding offenders accountable, regardless of nationality. The case highlights ongoing challenges involving undocumented migrants and disputes within migrant communities in South Africa, where tensions can sometimes escalate into violence. Legal experts say the ruling reinforces the importance of the rule of law and accountability, particularly in serious violent crimes.

Zimbabwean jailed South Africa murder