There was justice at last for the mom of slain toddler Oyingcwele Zokufa from Philippi East after the Western Cape High Court sentenced his killer to life in the mang for premeditated murder and eight years for kidnapping.
Mzimhle Jikwana, 32, was sentenced on Tuesday, 8 June, in the presence of the deceased boy’s family.
The two-year-old was kidnapped and killed in August 2018.
Jikwana snatched the child while he was playing outside his home, after an argument with the child’s aunt, his then girlfriend.
He was arrested after directing the police to a bush near the N2 where he had buried the tot in Philippi East.
He was found guilty in December and sentenced to life in jail last week.
The toddler’s mom, Siphesihle Zokufa, 28, says: “My baby will never come back but I can sleep at night knowing his killer won’t have freedom again.
“Maybe I will start healing and find closure. It is not easy but I now feel better.
“I am glad the court case is over, it was a constant reminder of how I painfully lost my bubbly child who I miss so much for his laughter and playful personality.
“It was said in court that he was poisoned and strangled to death,” adds Siphesihle.
She thanked the investigating unit for their dedication.
The investigating officer at Nyanga Police Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, who asked not to be identified, says they are pleased with this victory.
“This case was close to my heart and I have been with Siphesihle and Aviwe all this time. We’re happy and grateful with the outcome.”