Thembisa woman burnt to death by ex-boyfriend
“Police were told that when the ex-partner was permitted to enter the house he was seen not carrying anything.”
A 36-year-old woman was allegedly burnt to death by her ex-partner in Mqantsa section, Tembisa, on September 22.
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The woman was identified as Joyce Mahlalela who was a member of the Tembisa Community Forum.
The late TCF member was allegedly burnt with petrol by her ex-partner who also died at the scene.
It is reported that earlier that day Mahlalela was with other members of the forum and assisting in cleaning a house in Sedibeng section that had burnt down.
Tembisa SAPS communications officer, Constable Patricia Mgijima said later that day, the ex-boyfriend arrived at Mahlalela’s home.
“The family said that he was not allowed into the house, however, Mahlalela said they should allow him as he asked to see one of his children.
“The family went to bed, assuming that the ex-partner, who was in one of the outside rooms with Mahlelala and her son (8), had left, as her lights in the room were off.
“Around 04:00 a cousin heard an explosion and Mahlalela screaming. She rushed outside and saw fire coming from Mahlalela’s room.
“She called for help and she was heard by neighbours who also witnessed smoke coming from the house.
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“She proceeded to call for Mahlalela but there was no response. They then broke into her room,” said Mgijima.
“Neighbours managed to enter the burning room and removed Mahlalela and her son.
“It was only when the fire was extinguished that they discovered the ex partner inside the room, on a couch. He managed to walk himself out of the room and collapsed.
“Mahlalela and the ex partner died on the scene. The son survived and is in a critical condition fighting for his life in ICU,” said Mgijima.
Mgijima said the family was in shock as to where the petrol came from.
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“Police were told that when the ex-partner was permitted to enter the house he was seen not carrying anything.”
Xolani Mnisi from the Tembisa Community Forum said they met with the relevant stakeholder to pay tribute to Mahlalela.
Mnisi described Mahlalela as a bright and beautiful woman who was working for the community and striving to do what was right.
“Growing up in ekasi she knew the struggles of the people in Thembisa and for her life to be taken like that is very concerning and sad,” said Mnisi.
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