Friday, August 22, 2025
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has welcomed the 20-year sentence imposed on 30-year-old Constable Courtney Madella for the murder of her partner last year.
The South Gauteng High Court sentenced Madella to 15 years for murder and 5 years for defeating the ends of justice. Therefore, she will serve an effective 20 years in prison.
Madella killed her partner, Nomalungelo Khumalo, during an argument between the two at the police barracks in Sophiatown.
“It is alleged on 27 February 2024, the accused officer threw a container with acid at her partner during an argument at the police barracks. At the time of the incident, the deceased sustained severe burns to her face and body. The acid also burned another person who was with them,” said IPID in a statement.
The deceased and the other civilian were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.
Madella’s partner succumbed to her injuries a few days later.
“IPID’S investigation revealed that the accused officer disposed of the acid container after the incident. She thus faced a charge of murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and defeating the ends of justice,” said IPID. – SAnews.gov.za
