Gqeberha parolee given 15 years for Christmas Day 2024 murder

Donoven Carolus, 57, was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment in the Gqeberha Regional Court for a murder committed on Christmas Day in 2024. The court also convicted him of attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

What happened on Christmas Day

The court heard that the deceased, Elston Bain, had gone to a friend’s home in the Jacksonville township to wish him a merry Christmas. Bain was with another friend and his sister in the car. As he was exiting the vehicle on Brasilwood Street, he was approached by Carolus, who shot him in the head without saying a word. Carolus then shot at the friend before fleeing the scene.

Identification and arrest

Bain’s sister and the friend managed to identify the shooter. Carolus remained at large until 5 January 2025, when the sister saw him walking past Bethelsdorp police station and informed police, describing him by a visible scar. Carolus was arrested.

Trial and evidence

During the trial Carolus pleaded not guilty and called his wife as an alibi witness. The court was presented with testimony from the complainant in the attempted murder charge, the sister of the deceased, and a ballistic report linking the firearm to the crime.

Sentencing and prior record

The Regional Court Prosecutor, Cheswin King, told the court that Carolus had previously been convicted and sentenced for two murders and argued for a heavier sentence. King said:

“The pattern demonstrates a persistent and profound regard of the sanctity of human life and the authority of law. How many lives must be placed at risk, and how many opportunities for rehabilitation must fail before the interests of society are given their proper weight?”

The prosecutor asked the court to impose 25 years’ imprisonment, but the court found that Carolus’ advanced age and a chronic medical condition were compelling exceptional circumstances allowing deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The court sentenced Carolus to 15 years’ imprisonment for murder and attempted murder, and a further seven years’ imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The seven-year term was ordered to run concurrently with the 15-year term.

Official response

Director of Public Prosecutions in the Eastern Cape, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana, welcomed the sentence, saying:

“This sentence sends a strong message that acts of violence have no place in our communities. The NPA remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of serious violent crimes are held accountable and that justice is delivered for victims and their families.”