Man Sentenced to 27 Years for Murdering Ex-Partner in Front of Her Children

Obert Moyo, 46, has been sentenced to a minimum of 27 years in prison for the brutal murder of his former partner, Perseverance Ncube, in Bolton, UK. On November 10, 2022, Moyo broke into Ncube's home, where she lived with her two children aged 10 and 12, and began strangling her. As Ncube and her children fled, Moyo caught up with them and stabbed Ncube in the heart with a skewer, leaving her to die.

Ncube, 35, was described as a caring and devoted mother. Her children witnessed the horrific attack and courageously fought Moyo off, allowing their mother to escape, but she ultimately succumbed to her injuries. One child laid by Ncube's side in the street, while the other prayed for her life.

Moyo had been in an 18-month relationship with Ncube but she ended it when she discovered he had been seeing other women. After the breakup, Moyo began stalking Ncube for months, despite her telling him their relationship was over. He showed up outside her home and it is believed he had planned to burn down her house after killing her.

Why this matters: This tragic case highlights the serious issue of domestic violence and stalking, and the devastating impact it can have on victims and their families. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in protecting victims and preventing repeat offenders from causing further harm.

At the time of the murder, Moyo was already on license after being released from prison for a brutal attack on another ex-partner. He had a previous conviction for a violent offense against a former partner and was on parole, having previously served a 14-year sentence.

In court, Ncube's children gave heartbreaking statements, expressing their profound grief and blaming Moyo for ruining their lives. The judge described the crime as "calculated, premeditated, brutal and wicked," and said Moyo intended to kill Ncube.

The police and Ncube's family have expressed outrage that Moyo, who had been living in the UK illegally for over 20 years, was allowed to remain in the country for so long, and that his deportation could have prevented Ncube's tragic death. The police encourage anyone who believes they are being stalked to come forward so that they can take proactive and robust action against suspects.

Key Takeaways

• Obert Moyo, 46, sentenced to 27 years for murdering ex-partner Perseverance Ncube, 35.
• Moyo broke into Ncube's home, strangled her, and stabbed her in the heart as her children watched.
• Moyo had a history of domestic violence and was on parole at the time of the murder.
• Ncube's children gave heartbreaking statements, blaming Moyo for ruining their lives.
• Police urge victims of stalking to come forward to prevent similar tragedies.