A judge in Namibia's Windhoek High Court has handed down a 30-year prison sentence to Piet Gamaseb, 51, for the murder of his girlfriend, Davie 'Bokkie' Hanes, 28. The sentence was delivered after Gamaseb was convicted of murdering Hanes in their Outjo home on March 12, 2022. Judge Claudia Claasen described the assault as "atrocious" and stated that it was essential to send a clear message that such conduct cannot be tolerated.
According to the court, Hanes died from severe head injuries, including skull fractures and brain damage, inflicted by Gamaseb during a violent altercation. The evidence presented in court revealed that Hanes had been subjected to repeated blows to her head, resulting in a severe ordeal before her death. A post-mortem examination and the discovery of bloodstains in Gamaseb's room and a metal crowbar in his yard supported the prosecution's case.
During his trial, Gamaseb claimed that Hanes had been intoxicated at a bar and that she had fallen and hit her head against objects in their home. However, a medical doctor testified that the type of head injuries Hanes sustained could not have been caused by such falls. The court found Gamaseb's account implausible and convicted him of murder with a direct intention to kill, as well as a contravention of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act.
Judge Claasen emphasized that Hanes had a legitimate expectation of care and protection from her intimate partner, which was brutally betrayed. The judge also noted that Gamaseb showed no remorse for his actions and failed to acknowledge his wrongdoing during the trial. The sentence takes into account the approximately four years and seven months Gamaseb spent in custody before his trial concluded.
The case has highlighted the issue of domestic violence in Namibia, with the judge stressing the importance of sending a strong message against such conduct. The prosecution was represented by state advocate Ian Malumani, while defence lawyer Joseph Andreas represented Gamaseb. The court heard that Hanes' body was found on the verandah of her mother's house, covered with a blanket, after Gamaseb had informed her mother that he was looking for Hanes.
In addition to her head injuries, Hanes had several rib fractures when she died. The court accepted that Gamaseb inflicted the fatal injuries on Hanes during their argument. The judge's ruling stated that Gamaseb's actions culminated in violence and death, contrary to the support and companionship that Hanes had a right to expect from her partner.
The sentencing of Piet Gamaseb brings closure to the family of Davie 'Bokkie' Hanes, who had been seeking justice for her tragic death. The case serves as a reminder of the need for concerted efforts to combat domestic violence and protect victims of such crimes.
Key points
- Piet Gamaseb sentenced to 30 years in prison for murdering girlfriend in Outjo.
- Judge Claudia Claasen describes assault as "atrocious" and emphasizes need for strong message against domestic violence.
- Victim, Davie 'Bokkie' Hanes, died from severe head injuries inflicted by Gamaseb during a violent altercation.
