“They Were Locked Inside”: Mpumalanga Horror Sparks Renewed Outcry Over Gender-Based Violence

Two young women critically burned in Emalahleni attack as advocacy groups demand urgent government response

South Africa is once again staring into the flames of gender-based violence. This time, it’s Emalahleni in Mpumalanga where a 35-year-old man allegedly locked two women in a room and set it on fire — an act that has shocked the nation and reignited demands for decisive government action.

The victims, Nompumelelo Gumede (21) and Mbali Hill (23), are now fighting for their lives in hospital. According to authorities, the accused, who shares a child with Gumede, was swiftly arrested after a community member helped rush the women to the hospital and reported the incident to Vosman police.

He was denied bail on Tuesday and appeared before the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court on two counts of attempted murder. The case has been postponed to next Thursday for further investigation.

“This is not just another case” Communities demand accountability

Gender-based violence is not new to South Africa, but every case brings with it a fresh wave of pain, fury, and helplessness. In a society already overwhelmed by staggering GBV statistics, this act of violence felt especially cruel.

“This is not just another docket,” said Prince Ntsikelelo Soga, director of I Am That Man, an organisation tackling GBV through mentorship and education. “We are talking about real people, mothers, daughters, sisters. This must stop.”

Soga called on South Africans, particularly men to stop being bystanders. “We need to come together and create a culture of respect, empathy, and accountability,” he said. “Violence has become so common that we’re numb. We cannot afford to be numb anymore.”

Local police and prosecutors vow justice

Acting provincial commissioner Major-General Zeph Mkhwanazi said investigators were already working closely with the prosecution to ensure a strong case. “We make a clarion call to all community leaders, faith-based organisations and civil society to continue partnering with law enforcement,” he urged.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdluli confirmed that the suspect was arrested the same night of the incident and remains in custody.

Hill, who is related to Gumede, was reportedly visiting when the incident occurred. The motive is still under investigation.

A painful pattern: Emalahleni’s dark history with GBV

This isn’t the first time Emalahleni has made headlines for violence against women. In 2023, the town was left reeling after a man allegedly poured boiling water over his wife, Zodwa Ngwenya, leaving her with severe burns to her face and body.

These recurring horrors point to a systemic problem one that advocacy groups say can no longer be addressed with words and half-measures.

What South Africans are saying

The incident has sparked a storm of outrage on social media, with #JusticeForNompumelelo trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Feminist and activist groups have organised vigils and are demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa declare a national state of emergency on GBV.

“We march, we shout, we mourn. Still, nothing changes,” wrote one user. “This country is dangerous for women, and no one seems to care until it’s too late.”

The real crisis: When justice is reactive, not preventative

While authorities promise harsh punishment for the accused, many activists argue that justice in South Africa often arrives only after irreversible damage has been done.

This case has served as yet another painful reminder that gender-based violence isn’t an isolated issue, it’s a national emergency.

Gumede and Hill remain in critical condition. Their families, their community, and countless others around the country are praying for a recovery and for a justice system that works before the damage is done.

If you or someone you know is experiencing GBV, contact the GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428 or send a ‘Please Call Me’ to 1207867# for help.

{Source: The Citizen}

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