A 22-year-old South African woman, Nompumelelo Gumede, is battling for her life in intensive care after her boyfriend allegedly doused her and his own sister with petrol and set them on fire in a suspected act of domestic violence.
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the shocking incident occurred in eMalahleni, Witbank, in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. The suspect, believed to be the father of Nompumelelo’s two-year-old child, was reportedly driven by jealousy when he carried out the attack.
Horrific Attack in Locked Room
According to preliminary police reports, the suspect allegedly poured petrol on both Nompumelelo and his sister—who had intervened to stop the assault—and locked them in a room before setting it ablaze.
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Neighbours alerted emergency services, and the victims were rushed to the hospital with severe burns. Both women remain in critical condition, receiving intensive medical care.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Authorities confirmed that the suspect was arrested shortly after the incident and is being held in police custody. He is expected to appear before the Witbank Magistrate’s Court on Monday, July 28, where he will face charges of attempted murder and arson.
Local police have not yet released his name, pending court proceedings.
Outrage from Gender-Based Violence Advocates
The attack has sparked outrage across South Africa, reigniting conversations around the growing epidemic of gender-based violence (GBV).
“This is yet another example of how unsafe women are—even in their own homes,” said a local activist from the Women’s Safety Watch Coalition.
“We are calling on the justice system to send a strong message with this case.”
South Africa continues to grapple with high rates of domestic and intimate partner violence. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), over 120,000 cases of assault against women were reported in 2023 alone.
Family Pleads for Support and Justice
Nompumelelo’s family says they are devastated by the incident. Her cousin, who spoke to reporters outside the hospital, said the family is praying for a miracle.
“She is a kind and loving person. That this happened to her, in front of her child, is unthinkable. We just want justice.”
Meanwhile, the suspect’s sister—also a victim in the attack—is receiving treatment for second- and third-degree burns. Doctors say both women face a long road to recovery.
Investigation Ongoing
Police say investigations are ongoing and have urged the public to report any prior incidents of abuse involving the suspect.
Authorities have also encouraged victims of domestic violence to make use of the national GBV Command Centre by calling 0800 428 428 or sending “Help” via SMS to 31531.
