- Kenneth Chibuzor, a Nigerian national accused in the Elizabeth Moselakgomo smartwatch case, became emotional in court
- Chibuzor is one of three men who appeared in court but who have not been charged with Moselakgomo's murder
- South Africans took to social media to weigh in on Chibuzor's emotional moment in court, sharing mixed reactions to it
Source: Twitter
Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online.
GAUTENG — Accused one in the Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo smartwatch case broke down in tears at the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court on 19 October 2026.
Kenneth Chibuzor, a Nigerian national who operates a second-hand shop, is one of three men facing charges of theft, possession of stolen property, and money laundering.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the charges relate to the alleged handling and resale of Moselakgomo's Garmin smartwatch, which was reportedly purchased for R900 and resold for R4,000 within 24 hours of the 38-year-old runner's disappearance on 9 September 2026.
Her body was discovered three days later in Rhodesfield, Ekurhuleni. She was one of the many women whose bodies were discovered dumped around Ekurhuleni within the space of two months. Her case drew significant public attention and shone a light on the other murders in the area.
Bail hearing exposes Chibuzor's family situation
During Monday's proceedings, the court heard that Chibuzor's minor child had been left in the care of a friend since the time of his arrest. The news also brought tears to his eyes.
Chibuzor's bail application could not be finalised, as verification of his immigration status as a Nigerian national remained outstanding. The matter was postponed, with the 27th set as a potential date for the next appearance, pending the court's diary availability.
His two co-accused, Stephen Mahlakwane Sekhukhune and Danial Anthony Moat, were each granted bail of R10,000 under conditions that included surrendering their passports and reporting regularly to the police.
None of the three men has been charged in connection with Moselakgomo's killing.
How did South Africans react?
South Africans responded strongly to the video on X, with opinions divided between empathy for Chibuzor's child and grief for Moselakgomo's family.
@MR_K_R_B wrote:
"I always pray I don't find myself in situations like this. This is why I buy everything straight from stores."
@msimang6mch said:
"This should teach us a life lesson: no matter how desperate you are for any item, don't buy things from strangers."
@Mantsi_ responded:
"Nonsense, what about Tsontso's child? They come over here in our country, commit crimes and start performing for sympathy?"
@Tom47096338 added:
"We feel sorry for the poor child, but we feel sorry for Tsotso's child too. Her mother was murdered senselessly just because she went out to jog."
@PhutiMosotho countered:
"This guy just bought a watch. He did not kill anyone."
Other Briefly News stories about Moselakgomo
- Relatives of Elizabeth Moselakgomo formally identified her remains at the Germiston mortuary.
- A viral tribute video set to the words "For you. For her. For us." showcased joyful clips of Moselakgomo participating in road races.
- Local residents gathered on the streets of Kempton Park carrying candles and singing hymns to honour the 38-year-old.
Source: Briefly News
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