Child killer has uncontrolled anger, says report

A DISHONEST, manipulative person who has uncontrolled anger.

This was said in a pre-sentencing report submitted to the Western Cape High Court yesterday that assessed convicted murderer Mzimhle Jikwana’s behavioural patterns.

The man, 32, was convicted of kidnapping and the premeditated murder of two-year-old Oyingcwele Zokufa. The boy went missing on August 26, 2018, after Jikwana had an argument with the toddler’s aunt Aviwe, who at the time allegedly ended their intimate relationship.

The child’s body was found four days later in a shallow grave on the side of the N2 near Philippi, after Jikwana apparently led police to where he had buried him.

Yesterday professor Shanaaz Mathews, director of The Children’s Institute at UCT, who had compiled an assessment report, said Jikwana portrayed a lack of taking responsibility. Her report was based on differing statements Jikwana had given to the probation officer, social workers, police and the court.

“Uncontrolled anger is seen by the threatening messages he sent the child’s aunt and when he caused damages to her mother’s house.

“He also appears to force respect and submission from the aunt. Manipulation and the pleasure of being in control appear when he gives the police and people looking for the child the runaround.”

Mathews concluded there was also a lack of remorse. The defence argued that Mathews’s emphasis on lack of remorse was her own interpretation; she did not engage with Jikwana. A probation officer whose assessment stated Jikwana was open and honest about the offence later also concluded that he was dishonest.

Sentencing arguments will be heard on May 26.