A horrifying case of suspected domestic violence has left a 22-year-old South African woman, Nompumelelo Gumede, and her boyfriend’s sister battling for their lives after they were allegedly set ablaze by her jealous partner.
The tragic incident occurred in eMalahleni, Witbank, in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. According to police reports, the suspect—believed to be the father of Nompumelelo’s two-year-old child—allegedly poured petrol on both women and locked them in a room before setting it on fire. His sister was reportedly trying to intervene during the assault when she too became a victim.
Neighbours quickly alerted emergency services, and the victims were rushed to the hospital with severe burns. Both remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive medical care.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the attack and is currently in police custody. He is expected to be arraigned at the Witbank Magistrate’s Court on Monday, July 28, on charges of attempted murder and arson. Police have withheld his name pending court proceedings.
The brutal attack has sparked outrage across South Africa and renewed calls for urgent action against gender-based violence (GBV). A spokesperson for the Women’s Safety Watch Coalition condemned the act, saying, “This is yet another example of how unsafe women are—even in their own homes. We are calling on the justice system to send a strong message with this case.”
Nompumelelo’s family has expressed shock and devastation. A cousin who spoke to reporters said the incident occurred in the presence of her young child. “She is a kind and loving person. That this happened to her, in front of her child, is unthinkable. We just want justice,” the cousin said.
Doctors say both victims face a long and difficult road to recovery, dealing with second- and third-degree burns.
Authorities have encouraged the public to report any previous incidents of abuse involving the suspect, while reminding citizens that the national GBV Command Centre is available for victims via 0800 428 428 or SMS “Help” to 31531.
Police investigations are ongoing.
