Guardian and friends describe volatile relationship in Northern Cape student murder trial
Buba's body was discovered in an open veld between Bongweni and Khayelitsha in Kuyasa.
A volatile relationship came to light during the trial of a man accused of murdering his girlfriend in the Northern Cape, South Africa. Siphosovuyo Yabo, 22, is on trial for the murder of his 19-year-old girlfriend, Alulutho Bunono Buba, who was a student at the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein. Buba's body was discovered in an open field in June 2025 with a wound to her throat and a stab wound to her abdomen.
Yabo claimed he had brought Buba to Colesberg to reconcile with her on June 4, 2025, and that they were attacked by five men during an attempted robbery on the way back. He was initially admitted to a hospital for observation after injuring his thumb but later confessed to the murder based on the investigation. Yabo is charged with murder and defeating the administration of justice.
The victim's guardian and two friends testified during the trial, describing the couple's volatile and abusive relationship. The state, represented by Prosecutor Sisipho Zicina, successfully opposed Yabo's bail applications, leading to his remaining in custody. The trial, led by Advocate Rohann Steyn, has been adjourned until February 8-12, 2027.
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