Ballito businessman convicted of kidnapping and assaulting estranged wife

Ballito businessman Ryan Cowan (44) has been convicted of kidnapping and brutally assaulting his estranged wife, Mystrelle (37), after a nearly three-year trial.

The charges relate to events between May 4 and 6, 2021, mainly at Imbonini Business Park in Shaka’s Head. Evidence before the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court showed Ryan kidnapped Mystrelle, reportedly in an attempt to mend their crumbling marriage, holding her against her will and repeatedly assaulting her with his fists and a sjambok.

She suffered potentially life-threatening injuries and was admitted to ICU at Alberlito Hospital, where she underwent surgery for a degloving injury in which part of her scalp was separated and reattached.

Cowan faced charges of attempted murder, kidnapping and contravening a protection order. He was found guilty on all except attempted murder, and was instead convicted of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Magistrate Regina Mjwara said this was due to the absence of key medical testimony after ICU physician Dr N. Omar left the country.

Judgment was delivered on Tuesday, April 28, concluding proceedings described by attorney Nikhil Harilall as emotionally charged. He said Mystrelle suffered repeated breakdowns while reliving the trauma in granular detail.

Sentencing is set for June 17. Cowan’s bail of R10 000 was extended, with his attorney, John Murray, indicating plans to apply for leave to appeal.

At the time of his arrest in 2021, Cowan was already on bail in a separate pending matter involving assault GBH and contravention of a protection order related to Mystrelle. That matter remains pending before the Umhlali Magistrate’s Court.

Mystrelle said the guilty verdict brought a mix of relief and validation, describing it as a moment of reclaiming a part of herself. She thanked supporters, adding that the aftermath of abuse, including disbelief, silence and enabling behaviour, can be as damaging as the abuse itself.

She encouraged other survivors to speak out, saying their voices matter and that there is a way forward.

Where to get help

In the case of abuse, immediately contact the police.

Locally, the Rise Up Movement offers support to victims of GBV, child abuse and human trafficking. Based in Ballito the non-profit runs a free Post-Abuse Support Group for survivors.

• Rise Up Movement: 068 024 7568 or help@riseupmovement.org.za

• Saps Emergency: 08600 10111