By BAKANG MOKOTO
9 May 2025- A woman (47) from Majemantsho village, near Mahikeng, briefly appeared in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court on charges of attempted murder and child abuse involving her daughter (14). It is alleged that in the early hours of 22 April 2025, the mother arrived home and asked the child to accompany her to an outside bedroom.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Sivenathi Gunya, she then allegedly poured acidic liquid on the child’s face. Gunya said the court heard that after committing the act, the mother transported the child to a local hospital.
“She was subsequently arrested and has remained in custody since then. During her bail application, the accused submitted an affidavit claiming she had no previous convictions, no outstanding warrants of arrest, and would not interfere with the complainant.
“However, the state opposed bail, submitting an affidavit from the Investigating Officer, which detailed prior incidents where the accused had allegedly threatened the victim’s life,” he said.
Gunya further said the prosecution argued that releasing the accused on bail would endanger the safety of the child, given that she is the biological mother and the primary alleged perpetrator. He added that, the state prosecutor also emphasised the trauma and fear the child experienced during the incident, urging the court to prioritise the victim’s protection.
“The court concurred with the state and ruled that the accused is not a suitable candidate for bail. Bail was denied and the matter was postponed to 1 July 2025, for further investigations,” said Gunya.
Meanwhile, the identity of the accused is being withheld to protect the identity of the minor victim.
The Guardian 