A man is standing trial for the brutal murder of his grandmother in Pinetown, South Africa. Thabo Nzimande, 32, allegedly stabbed Beatrice de Lange multiple times before beheading her. The court was told that he then used her decapitated head as a football. Nzimande was apprehended the next day wearing bloodstained clothes after the 80-year-old woman was discovered dead in her residence.
The legal proceedings were delayed when the defense attorney representing Nzimande parted ways with him, citing a disagreement over the plea deal. The trial has now commenced, with the victim’s daughter, Ziningi Myaka, recounting the events leading up to her mother’s tragic demise.
According to Myaka, her mother had been supportive of Nzimande, providing him with clothes and paying for his education. However, tensions arose between them due to a suspected drug test result. Nzimande had a history of mental health issues, including hallucinations and memory loss, for which he had received treatment.
During her testimony, Myaka revealed that Nzimande had displayed violent behavior towards her, leading to concerns about his well-being. She expressed regret for not recognizing the warning signs earlier and trying to help him lead a better life. The trial was briefly adjourned to allow Nzimande’s attorney to consult with him further, but the defense counsel ultimately withdrew from the case due to conflicting instructions from the suspect. The trial is ongoing.