An atrocious nursery school teacher who sexually assaulted and killed her boyfriend’s four-year-old daughter carried out a horrific final act by drowning the child in a bathtub.

Amber Lee Hughes, 25, confessed to the murder of little Nada-Jane Chalita, driven by her unfounded suspicions of her partner’s infidelity.

On January 23, 2023, Elie, Nada-Jane’s father, entrusted Hughes with his daughter while he attended a job interview in Johannesburg. Hughes, triggered by jealousy when Elie did not bid farewell, escalated to the point of forcibly submerging the child in the bathtub until she died.

Initially denying the charges of murder, Hughes eventually pleaded guilty, acknowledging that she left Nada-Jane’s lifeless body in the tub with the water running after the child went silent.

Testifying in the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, Hughes admitted to drowning Nada-Jane and leaving her unresponsive in the bathtub.

Prior to the fatal incident, Hughes had sent a message to Elie expressing her anguish, indicating a premeditated intention. Post-mortem findings revealed previous instances of sexual assault on Nada-Jane.

During a court session, Hughes attributed her criminal actions to a troubled upbringing and mental health issues, highlighting experiences of bullying and suicidal tendencies.

Despite expressing remorse for her actions, the court determined that Hughes had meticulously planned the heinous crime, as evidenced by her threatening messages preceding the murder.

Hughes entered a relationship with Elie in 2021, leading to cohabitation with him and Nada-Jane. The tumultuous relationship saw Hughes repeatedly threatening harm against the child.

Convicted of premeditated murder and sexual assault, Hughes faces mandatory life imprisonment under South African law.

Elie, grappling with the loss of his daughter, lamented the absence of true justice for the tragedy that befell his family.

The victim’s family expressed frustration as sentencing was postponed to February 16, 2026, prolonging their quest for closure.

For support, individuals in distress can reach out to Samaritans via their 24/7 helpline at 116 123 or through email at jo@samaritans.org.