Kimberley, Northern Cape – The High Court of South Africa’s Northern Cape Division has sentenced Jakob Ratel, 33, to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Renée Lachporia, 43.
Ratel was found guilty of murdering Lachporia following a heated argument over financial matters at a local shebeen in Delportshoop. The altercation escalated into physical violence at Ratel’s sister’s residence, where he severely assaulted Lachporia.
After being ordered to leave, Ratel confessed to his sister that he had kicked and trampled on Lachporia’s head. He later informed his mother of the crime, who noticed his bloodied shoes and alerted his sister. Lachporia’s body was discovered two days later, covered with a blanket in her home.
In addition to the life sentence for murder, Ratel received three consecutive 3-year sentences for assault with grievous bodily harm.
Despite facing trial, Ratel maintained his innocence throughout.
Case Details:
- Victim: Renée Lachporia, 43
- Perpetrator: Jakob Ratel, 33
- Crime: Murder and assault with grievous bodily harm
- Location: Delportshoop, Northern Cape
- Sentence: Life imprisonment for murder, 3 years for each count of assault with grievous bodily harm
