Serial killer found guilty of murder, killing six sex workers

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A serial killer who preyed on sex workers has been found guilty of murder and rape by the south Gauteng high court in Johannesburg.

Sifiso Mkhwanazi was found guilty on six counts of murder, six of rape, six of defeating or obstructing the administration of justice and unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.

Mkhwanazi was arrested in October 2022, following the discovery of six female bodies at the premises of a panel beating business in Rosettenville. 

According to the National Prosecuting Authority(NPA) regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane, one of the caretakers had discovered a female’s corpse at one of the unused offices and alerted the owner of the premises.

“The business owner who is the father of the accused, summoned the police. Upon investigation, five more bodies were discovered at various locations within the premises.

“The State alleged that Mkhwanazi raped and killed the sex workers that he collected from the Johannesburg CBD between April and October 2022.

Serial killer admits to killing the women

“He pleaded not guilty to all the charges and tendered admission in terms of section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act, wherein he admitted to killing the women using an arm choke but denied raping them, stating that it was consensual sex in exchange for money,” she remarked.

Mjonondwane stated that throughout the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including forensic analysis presented by Investigating Officer, Sergeant Bongani Mbonambi, as well as witness testimonies, painting a clear picture of Mkhwanazi’s guilt. 

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She added; “In his closing arguments, senior state advocate, Leswikane Mashabela, told the court that Mkhwanazi planned to murder the sex workers and that there was no consensual sex between the deceased and the accused.”

Mjonondwane reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to combating gender-based violence and said they will continue to work tirelessly to create a society where all individuals can live free from fear and harm.