The Nquthu Regional Court has sentenced a 27-year-old man to life imprisonment for attempted murder and arson after a violent attack on his 9-month-old nephew and an attempt to set the family home alight.

Baby struck during domestic dispute

According to Umzinyathi SAPS spokesperson Constable Siyabonga Nkwanyana, the June 2024 incident unfolded during a heated argument between the accused and his sister, the child’s mother.
“During the dispute, the accused threw a spanner which struck the baby on the head,” Cst Nkwanyana confirmed.

Detective Constable Zanengcebo Hlongwane of Dundee’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit was assigned to the case.

After injuring the infant, the accused moved to another room and attempted to set the house on fire. “Fortunately, the fire was contained before it could destroy the home,” said Cst Nkwanyana.

Court hands down a life sentence

On November 20, after hearing all the evidence, the court convicted the accused and imposed a life sentence. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Cst Nkwanyana said the SAPS welcomed the ruling. “This sentence sends a strong message that violence against vulnerable victims will not be tolerated,” he said.