A court in Mpumalanga, South Africa, has sentenced a 29-year-old man named Jabulani Nkosi to life in prison for killing his pregnant girlfriend, Boitsoko Khoza. He also received an extra five years for setting her body on fire.

Nkosi was found guilty of murder and arson on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

According to South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Khoza was last seen on November 22, 2023, by a friend. That same day, she messaged her workmates saying she wouldn’t be coming to work because she planned to visit her parents in Mamelodi.

However, Khoza never made it to her family home. When she didn’t arrive, her loved ones tried to reach her, but her phone was off. She was later reported missing.

On November 25, 2023, her rented flat in Evander caught fire. Firefighters were able to put out the flames, but they made a tragic discovery—Khoza’s burned body was inside the flat.

A medical exam later revealed she had been badly beaten. She had broken ribs, stab wounds, and had been set on fire. It was also confirmed that she was 10 weeks pregnant at the time.

Nkosi was arrested after he told friends about what he had done.

The case was led by Senior State Advocate Themba Lusenga. In court, witnesses, fire experts, and even a businessman gave evidence. One businessman shared that Nkosi sold him Khoza’s phone for R650.

During sentencing, Khoza’s mother read a Victim Impact Statement, explaining how painful and life-changing her daughter’s death had been for the family.

The judge described the murder as cruel and heartless. Advocate Lusenga noted that Nkosi never showed any remorse and couldn’t even explain why he did it. The court also pointed out that gender-based violence is a serious issue in society. The fact that Khoza was pregnant made the crime even worse.

Nkosi was given life in prison for the murder and five years for arson. The sentences will run at the same time, meaning he will spend the rest of his life in jail. He is also not allowed to own a gun.

The NPA said they were pleased with the judgment and will continue to fight for justice for victims of gender-based violence and support their families.