A South African attorney, Sbonakaliso Mpisi, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend, Mahlako Malebo Rabalao, before allegedly setting her body and vehicle on fire in an attempt to conceal the crime.
The sentence was handed down on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg.
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During the trial, Mpisi was found guilty of the murder of Rabalao, as well as malicious injury to property and defeating the administration of justice.
He has remained in custody since his arrest on July 28, 2023, after abandoning his application for bail.
Rabalao’s remains were discovered inside her Mercedes-Benz on March 9, 2023, near her home in Midrand.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole, Senior State Advocate Michelle Bayat told the court that although medical experts could not determine the exact cause of death because the body had been extensively burned, the evidence proved beyond reasonable doubt that Rabalao had died before the fire was started.
The court accepted the prosecution’s case, which was supported by circumstantial evidence, including cellphone records, forensic findings, expert testimony, and Mpisi’s actions before and after the incident.
Prosecutors successfully argued that Mpisi murdered Rabalao before setting her body and vehicle ablaze in an attempt to destroy evidence and cover up the crime.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that the couple had been in a romantic relationship.
According to prosecutors, Rabalao had informed relatives and close friends that she intended to end the relationship and move out of the apartment she shared with Mpisi before she was killed.
Rabalao, an IT specialist, was just days away from celebrating her 27th birthday when her life was cut short.
Mpisi, who was 30 years old at the time of his arrest, was apprehended in KwaZulu-Natal after a four-month investigation.
Before his arrest in 2023, Mpisi posted an emotional tribute on Facebook following Rabalao’s death.
He wrote:
“Rest in peace, my love. The pain I’m in is so deep. I don’t know where to begin to start picking up the pieces. How do I raise Beanie ungekho?… I thank God for giving me the time we’ve shared together; nothing can ever take that away.”
He also added:
“To all those who have given comfort, it is appreciated, and also to all who have given their continuous support in all ways in this dark moment. Your prayers, visits, company, financial and psychological support is highly appreciated.”