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Man to appear in court for alleged axe killing of partner

Man to appear in court for alleged axe killing of partner

A 41-year-old man will appear in the Nkomazi Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, 14 May for allegedly murdering the mother of his children in Schoemansdal.
The suspect faces a charge of murder following a brutal attack on his 31-year-old partner.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, confirmed that the horrific incident occurred in Schoemansdal on Monday, 12 May 2025, when the suspect allegedly attacked the victim with an axe following a heated argument.
'The suspect and the 31-year-old victim had a heated argument. He allegedly attacked her with an axe and caused fatal injuries,' said Ndubane.
The suspect reportedly left the woman, a mother of two, in the street after assaulting her and inflicting fatal injuries.
'After the attack, the suspect allegedly left her lifeless body in the street,' added Ndubane.
South African Police Services (SAPS) responded to the scene, and a swift investigation led them to arrest the suspect.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, condemned the act.
He urged members of the community to seek help when experiencing domestic or relationship problems rather than resorting to violence.
Mkhwanazi emphasised that gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) remain a serious threat to safety and the well being of women and children.
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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