TUBATSE – A 31-year-old man was arrested in Tubatse for the assault and fatal stabbing of his 38-year-old girlfriend at Bothashoek Village. The incident, which resulted in the woman’s death at a local clinic, occurred following a dispute at a tavern on Saturday evening.
According to South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, police were alerted to the incident after the victim succumbed to her injuries while receiving medical treatment. Reports indicate that on the evening of Saturday, 08 June 2024, the victim and her boyfriend were involved in a heated argument at a local tavern. After the tavern owner intervened, the victim left with intentions to report the assault to the police. However, it is alleged that the suspect followed her, assaulted her further, and stabbed her with an unknown instrument. He then transported her to her residence, where he remained until the next day.
The following morning, the victim’s family discovered her in her room, bleeding severely. They quickly arranged for her transport to the clinic, where she later died. The suspect fled the scene upon the arrival of the police but was apprehended later that evening in Burgersfort town as he was heading towards Lydenburg.
Lieutenant General Hadebe emphasized the seriousness with which the SAPS treats domestic violence cases and urged those in dangerous situations to seek help promptly. He also encouraged community members to intervene when witnessing such incidents.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 10 June 2024. Police investigations are ongoing.