- Two Johannesburg sex workers were handed life sentences for the brutal murder of a client in Sandton back in April 2019.
- An argument between the client and one of the women escalated, leading her to strangle him with a charging cable.
- Online reactions to the case were varied, offering a mix of opinions about sex workers and the justice system.
JOHANNESBURG — The Gauteng High Court didn’t mince words when sentencing two Johannesburg sex workers to life in prison for the murder of their client. This isn’t just another case—it’s a story that’s sparked plenty of conversation across the country. Let’s dive in.
Back on April 13, 2019, two women, Refilwe Mokgotlo and Julia Rihlampfu, left Tshwane for a night out in Fourways, hoping to find clients. This decision would ultimately lead to a tragic and unforgettable outcome.
Joburg Sex Workers Face Justice After Client's Death
The pair found a 29-year-old man willing to take them back to his Sandton residence. Around 3 a.m., the man and Mokgotlo, also 29, began a consensual sexual encounter while Rihlampfu, 33, waited in another room. But things took a dark turn when an argument erupted between the two. According to Warrant Officer Mojapelo’s testimony, Mokgotlo strangled the client to death using a charging cable.
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Lumka Mahanjana, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng, stated that the duo didn’t stop there. They stole various items from the apartment before fleeing the scene. “A family friend discovered his lifeless body after the deceased's father, unable to reach him, reached out. Video footage from the complex showed Mokgotlo and Rihlampfu leaving with the victim’s house keys. A cellphone cord was found tightly wrapped around his neck,” Mahanjana explained.
“The NPA fully supports the sentence handed down, which reflects the gravity of the crime and upholds justice for the victim and his family.”
Senior State Advocate Evelyn Moseki highlighted the aggravating circumstances, pointing out that the sex workers exploited their client’s kindness. “They took advantage of his hospitality after he welcomed them into his home and even fed them,” Moseki emphasized.
In the end, the court sentenced both Mokgotlo and Rihlampfu to life imprisonment for murder, 15 years for robbery, and six months for theft.
South Africans React to the Verdict
When news of the sentencing broke, South Africans couldn’t help but weigh in. Social media lit up with strong opinions about the case and the justice system’s response. It’s clear that this story struck a nerve.
Briefly News took note of some of the most colorful comments from the public.
@Crasythings expressed shock: “I’m speechless. I think the government should take a life for anyone who takes a life. This is justice.”
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“I’m speechless. I think the government should take a life for anyone who takes a life.”
@Proudly012 warned others about the dangers of engaging with certain sex workers: “Travelling from Pretoria to Fourways? Chances are, they’re the type who spike drinks and steal. Dangerous business!”
“Travelling from Pretoria to Fourways; chances are that they are the kind that spikes the drinks of their clients and steal their things. Dangerous!”
@MdloziniSifiso marveled at the strength it must have taken: “Strangled with a phone cord? That lady must be really strong to take down a man like that.”
“Strangled with a phone cord. That lady must be really strong to strangle a man.”
Serial Rapist Receives 42 Life Sentences
Meanwhile, in another high-profile case, the NPA applauded the sentencing of serial rapist Nkosinathi Emmanuel Phakathi. The court handed down 42 life sentences and a total of 791 years and six months of direct imprisonment for his crimes over a nine-year span. At 40 years old, Phakathi’s future is behind bars, a fitting end for such a heinous criminal.
Justice, it seems, has been served in both cases, sending a strong message to those who think they can get away with violent crimes. The system, while not perfect, continues to strive for fairness and accountability.
