MTHATHA – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested a 57-year-old man suspected of murdering his girlfriend who died shortly after a visit from him during which he brought refreshments to her hospital bed, where she was recovering from injuries he had allegedly inflicted days earlier.
According to a statement released by the SAPS, “a 51-year-old woman died in a Mthatha private hospital on Friday, 06 June 2025, at approximately 13:55, from injuries sustained during a gender-based domestic violence incident. The assault occurred on Saturday, 31 May 2025, involving her 57-year-old male partner at an automotive dealership in Mthatha.”
Police investigations revealed that the victim, from East London, had visited her boyfriend at the automotive dealership where he works on 31 May. Following a quarrel, the suspect allegedly assaulted her at his workplace. He later transported her to hospital on Sunday, 1 June, where she was admitted for treatment. At that time, the suspect reportedly claimed that his partner had been attacked by “unknown thugs” near the dealership.
The suspect visited her in the hospital on Friday, 6 June, bringing refreshments. Shortly after consuming these items, the woman became severely ill and died at approximately 13:55 that same day.
“Based on preliminary investigations utilising available electronic evidence, the 57-year-old male suspect was arrested on Friday, 06 June 2025, at approximately 19:00,” the SAPS statement confirmed.
The official cause of death will be determined following a comprehensive post-mortem examination.
The Acting OR Tambo District Commissioner, Brigadier Vukile Ntuli, praised Madeira police for their swift action in arresting the suspect. “We can no longer tolerate this brutal violence against women,” he stated, urging police to thoroughly investigate the case and secure a conviction.
The suspect is expected to appear in court early next week, facing serious charges that may include murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and defeating the ends of justice.
The SAPS has encouraged anyone with information about the case to come forward, as the investigation continues.
