Judgment reserved in trial of student accused of killing pregnant teacher Kirsten Kluyts
The Johannesburg High Court has postponed the continuation of judgment in Bafana Mahungela’s trial over the murder of teacher Kirsten Kluyts to September 11, 2026.
A man charged with the murder of Delta Park High School English teacher Kirsten Kluyts awaits his final judgement after a High Court in Johannesburg reserved its decision. Bafana Mahungela, 23, appeared in court on Friday, where partial judgement was given. Mahungela is charged with kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, murder, and attempted rape.
He is accused of killing Kluyts, who was 14 weeks pregnant, during a MyRun event at George Lea Park in Parkmore, Sandton, on October 29, 2023. Kluyts' body was found off the running track in a secluded area. Mahungela allegedly stole her clothes, ear pods, watch, sunglasses, and other items, leaving her body exposed. He was arrested on November 26 after police obtained CCTV footage.
Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, Mahungela admitted to stealing Kluyts' clothes, contaminating the crime scene with his fingerprints, and disposing of evidence. He claimed he met Kluyts at a Parkmore restaurant and later discovered her body. Mahungela also admitted to removing her clothes to avoid implicating himself and disposing of her belongings.
He believes he should face charges of theft and defeating the ends of justice. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) remains confident in the evidence presented and respects the judicial process, reaffirming its commitment to upholding the rule of law.
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