Victoria Scheer
BBC News, South Yorkshire
Sipho Pfukani, 29, was sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of the murder of 26-year-old Lazarus Makono. The fatal stabbing occurred during an altercation at a house party in Goldthorpe, Barnsley, on 21 February.
During the trial at Sheffield Crown Court, it was revealed that the two men became embroiled in a heated argument, which escalated when Pfukani, in response to Mr. Makono’s aggression, retrieved a kitchen knife. He then proceeded to stab Mr. Makono multiple times. Despite efforts by others at the party to de-escalate the situation, Mr. Makono returned, which led to further conflict. Pfukani, who had kept the knife with him, then attacked Mr. Makono, despite knowing he was unarmed.
Judge Graham Reeds KC acknowledged that although the killing was not premeditated, Pfukani had “lost his temper” and acted impulsively in the heat of the moment. Pfukani, who has prior convictions for affray and possession of a bladed article, was told he would serve at least 18 years in prison before being considered for parole.
Alongside Pfukani, 28-year-old Terrance Mlotshwa, who assisted in disposing of evidence and used a stolen bank card to purchase alcohol, was sentenced to two years and six months for aiding an offender. Mlotshwa also received an additional 12 weeks for fraud.
In a poignant statement, Mr. Makono’s aunt expressed the devastating impact of his death on their family and community. She described him as a “bright and bubbly” individual whose memory would “never fade.”
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the destructive consequences of violence and the irreparable harm it causes to loved ones and communities.
