Two young women, Nompumelelo Gumede (21) and Mbali Hill (23), are in critical condition at Witbank General Hospital after being brutally set alight in a locked room last Wednesday. The alleged attacker, Mpumelelo Hill—reported to be Gumede’s intimate partner and Mbali’s cousin—has been charged with two counts of attempted murder.
Horrific Attack in Kwa Guqa Township
The incident occurred in Kwa Guqa township following an alleged altercation. According to reports, Hill locked the victims inside a bedroom, doused them with a flammable substance believed to be petrol, and ignited the blaze. Witnesses described hearing screams and seeing flames engulf the room before rushing to help.
“They tried to ask him to open the door, but he claimed he didn’t have the key,” a source close to the investigation revealed. By the time bystanders intervened, both women had sustained severe burns. Mbali Hill suffered third-degree burns, and both victims remain in a life-threatening condition.
Family’s Anguish and Fears
Gumede’s mother, Shirley Mlanjeni, expressed her devastation, stating that her daughter was “burnt like a hated person.”
“We are heartbroken. We never expected this to happen to her,” Mlanjeni said, struggling to hold back tears. “The doctors say the burns cover her entire body, even inside. I doubt she will make it. There’s little hope.”
Suspect in Custody, More Charges Possible
Mpumelelo Hill was arrested hours after the attack and made his first court appearance in the eMalahleni Magistrate’s Court. The case has been postponed to 7 August for further investigation. Police have not ruled out additional charges.
“We are investigating two counts of attempted murder, but more charges could be added,” a police spokesperson confirmed.
Community Calls for Justice
The attack has sparked outrage, with local activists condemning gender-based violence and demanding swift justice. As Gumede and Hill battle for survival, their case highlights the urgent need for stronger protections against intimate partner violence in South Africa.