A 35-year-old man from Nkanini in Carolina was denied bail after he was arrested on 24 November last year in connection with attempted murder, arson and violation of a protection order.

According to Sgt Thabang Mokwana, spokesman for Carolina Police, the man allegedly locked his wife and two children, aged five and seven, in their shack, poured petrol over their home and set it alight.

Neighbours who heard the commotion, extinguished the fire and rescued the family.

They were admitted to Carolina Hospital.

“The suspect also sustained burn injuries and was admitted to the hospital where he was kept under police guard.”

He appeared in the Carolina Magistrate’s Court after he was released from the hospital and was denied bail.