By Staff Reporter
WATERVAL – The Waterval Regional Court has sentenced 26-year-old Gift Chauke to 25 years’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to the murder of his girlfriend, 21-year-old Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) student, Nyikiwe Miranda Chauke.
Miranda, who was from Gawula village outside Giyani, was reported missing in January 2024. Her body was later found in bushes in the same village on 12 January 2024.
During Wednesday’s court proceedings (10 December 2025), Chauke admitted to his involvement in the crime and implicated another suspect known only as “Hitman.” According to the prosecution, the two suspects allegedly restrained Miranda before she was fatally assaulted.
Chauke told the court that he had been the one caring for Miranda and claimed that he led police to the location where her body was discovered. His plea resulted in a swift conclusion of his trial.
The alleged accomplice, “Hitman,” is expected to appear before the same court on 6 March 2026 to face charges relating to the murder and additional offences.
Speaking outside court, Miranda’s father said the family accepts the sentence handed to Chauke for now but will await further details when the second suspect appears. He added that he remains uncertain about Chauke’s exact role in the events that led to his daughter’s death.
The case has once again sparked concern over persistent gender-based violence in the region. Community members and activists have voiced the need for stronger interventions and improved safety measures for young women.
The matter remains before the court pending the upcoming appearance of the second accused, and further updates will follow as proceedings continue.
