The Oudtshoorn Regional Court in the Western Cape has sentenced a man for the brutal murder of his girlfriend’s father.
Patrick Rondganger was found guilty of murdering Eric Xakaka, as well as charges of theft and obstructing justice.
According to the court proceedings, Eric Xakaka resided with his daughter, grandchild, and her boyfriend, Patrick Rondganger, for four years. Despite being the primary financial supporter for the household, Xakaka found himself in a tragic altercation with Rondganger.
The court heard that following an evening when Rondganger returned home intoxicated, Xakaka insisted that he leave. However, Rondganger remained.
The next morning, Xakaka reiterated his demand for Rondganger to depart. With his daughter at work, leaving only the two men at home, an argument ensued, culminating in Rondganger fatally stabbing Xakaka multiple times.
After burying Xakaka in a shallow grave in the yard and concealing the body under two old fridges, Rondganger proceeded to sell his victim’s cell phone.
Only two days into the police investigation, he led officials to Xakaka’s grave.
Prior to the trial, Rondganger underwent mental evaluation to ascertain his competency to stand trial. The legal proceedings faced several delays, including Rondganger changing legal representation and his girlfriend’s reluctance to testify against him.
The court also learned that the family had planned to celebrate Xakaka’s 60th birthday a day after his tragic murder.
Rondganger received a 20-year sentence for murder and three years for theft and obstructing justice. Eric Ntabazalila, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Western Cape, expressed satisfaction with the sentence imposed by the court.
‘The NPA welcomes the sentence and applauds the investigation and prosecution team and the continued important role played by the Court Preparation Officers in ensuring justice for victims of crime,’ Ntabazalila said.
Compiled by Aiden Daries
