POLOKWANE – A month after being discharged from hospital, SANDF soldier Moses Matodzi says life may not return to normal anytime soon following a hot oil attack, allegedly by his girlfriend, who is now facing an attempted murder charge.

Matodzi was allegedly attacked in December when hot cooking oil was poured over his face and body. His partner at the time, Dorah Molokomme (28), was charged with attempted murder.

Images of Matodzi’s severe burn injuries circulated widely on social media, drawing condemnation from political parties, advocacy groups and the Provincial Government.

The incident has been described as a case of gender-based violence, with organisations stressing that while violence against women is more common, cases involving male victims should be treated with equal seriousness.

Alleged bail violation raised in court

She was granted bail days after the incident on December 4, citing family responsibilities, while Matodzi was still hospitalised.

It was then heard in court on February 9 that she allegedly violated one of its conditions not to approach the victim, though it is not clear yet in which manner.

Lentswe Laka Foundation, a victim support group said it would follow up with the investigating officer to ensure that action is taken.

Speaking to BONUS after his release from hospital on January 6, Matodzi said his recovery has been slow and painful.

“I am not okay. I wake up with pain every morning. My shoulders, abdomen and back still have burn wounds, and that makes life hard to navigate. I need close assistance, despite my desire to be independent,” he said.

Matodzi initially did not open a case, as the couple had reportedly planned to settle the matter out of court.

Following advice from the MEC for Community Safety Violet Mathye and provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, he later laid a formal complaint.

The attack followed an argument at their Seshego home.

On February 6, the Seshego Magistrate’s Court indicated it was ready to proceed with the matter beyond the bail stage.

Charge classification debated

During proceedings, the defence requested that the attempted murder charge be reduced to a schedule two offence.

The state opposed this, arguing for a schedule five classification, citing evidence of previous injuries reportedly inflicted on the victim.

Victim empowerment organisation Lentswe Laka Foundation has urged the court not to downplay the case or treat it as self-defence. Founder Maletsema Ramokone said support structures exist to help people leave abusive relationships.

“No one should take the law into their own hands. The perpetrator must face the full consequences of their actions,” she said.