By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A 22-year-old woman is fighting for her life after an alleged horrific incident of domestic violence that has shaken the community of Carolina.
The victim was allegedly set alight by her 34-year-old male companion in the early hours of Tuesday 20 August.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the suspect reportedly poured flammable liquid from a 2 litre container on the woman and she was saved by her neighbours who were woken up after hearing her agonising screams for help.
“ When he realised that the neighbors were coming to her rescue, the man abandoned what he was doing then fled the scene,” said Mdhluli.
“ The neighbors did their best to extinguish the fire and the female victim was taken to hospital for medical treatment,” he added.
Mdhluli said the suspect was subsequently arrested in the evening of the same day, following a swift investigation by police.
The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr)Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the police consider incidents of Gender-Based Violence(GBV) as serious and such cases receive the urgency they deserve.
He emphasised that the South African Police Service(SAPS) is disturbed by these types of incidents of violence perpetuated against women, especially during the month of August, which is dedicated to celebrating women.
“ The swift arrest of the suspect is well commended and we hope that justice will be served for the victim. This shows our commitment to deal decisively with crime against women and children. We wish a speedy recovery to the victim,” said General Mkhwanazi.
The suspect will reportedly appear before the Carolina Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 22 August facing a charge of attempted murder.
