Husband held in police custody after hacking wife to death – KZN

A woman was chopped to death with a bush-knife by her husband on Saturday night at Othombothini area outside Jozini.

The deceased, Thembi Nyawo (49), was attacked while at her neighbour’s house with her friends.

Her friend, Philisiwe Nkomonde, said the suspect entered her house with a panga, and without any words he started hacking at everyone in the house.

‘He slashed me on my left hand with his bush-knife. When our male friend tried to intervene, the suspect struck him on the head. When we managed to escape, he went straight for his wife and chopped her several times. She was declared dead at the scene.

‘The couple had six children and two grandchildren, but my friend used to tell me that her husband was abusive,’ said Nkomonde, who was admitted to hospital for medical attention.

‘I would like to urge all women not to stay in an abusive relationship. This man accused my friend of cheating, but according to my knowledge Thembi was not cheating; she was a decent woman who respected herself.’

Police spokesperson, Colonel Thembeka Mbhele said a case of murder and two cases of attempted murder were registered at Ingwavuma SAPS.

‘A 48-year-old suspect was arrested and charged. He appeared before Ingwavuma Magistrate’s Court and was remanded in police custody for further investigation. He is expected to reappear at the same court on Tuesday for a formal bail application,’ Mbhele said.