Woman gets 20 years for Zebediela acid attack
Yvonne Maja (25) was sentenced to 20 years in Mokopane Regional Court for an acid attack on her ex-boyfriend’s partner in Zebediela.
MOKOPANE – Last Monday, the Mokopane Regional Court sentenced Yvonne Maja (25) to an effective 20 years’ imprisonment for attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 18 years for attempted murder and two years for assault.
The sentence follows her conviction on December 1, which emanated from an incident that occurred on October 13, 2024 at Mogoto Mabereng village in Zebediela.
The court heard that Maja went to her ex-boyfriend, Kgotlelelo Phasha’s residence where she found him and his new partner, Mmapeu Neo Hlanga.
An argument ensued, during which Maja insulted Hlanga and poured acid on her face, which resulted in her sustaining severe injuries.
Phasha sustained less serious injuries.Both victims were rushed to Zebediela Hospital, from where Hlanga was transferred to Mankweng Hospital, where she was hospitalised for approximately seven months due to the severity of her injuries.
Maja was traced and arrested on February 14 and initially appeared before the Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court, where she was granted bail of R3 000.
The matter was transferred to the Mokopane Regional Court for trial.
The case was investigated by Sgt Nthapa Judah Swafo, whose work ensured a successful conviction and sentencing.
Provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe welcomed the sentence and reiterated the police’s commitment to decisively dealing with violent crimes, particularly those arising from domestic and relationship-related disputes.
“Such acts of violence will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable through the criminal justice system,” she said.
