Jealous Boyfriend Sets Girlfriend and Sister Ablaze in South Africa – Victim in ICU

A horrifying case of domestic violence has shaken the South African community of eMalahleni, Witbank, Mpumalanga, after a 22-year-old woman, Nompumelelo Gumede, was allegedly set on fire by her jealous boyfriend. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The suspect, who is also the father of Nompumelelo’s two-year-old child, reportedly attacked her in a jealous rage, dousing both her and his own sister in petrol before locking them inside a room and setting it ablaze.

Domestic Violence Turns Deadly in Mpumalanga

According to reports, the suspect’s sister had tried to intervene and protect Nompumelelo from the escalating violence. Tragically, she too became a victim of the gruesome attack.

Both women sustained severe burn injuries and are currently being treated in intensive care, with their conditions described as critical.

Suspect Arrested – Court Appearance Scheduled

Authorities confirmed that the suspect was arrested shortly after the attack and will appear in court on Monday, July 28, 2025, to face charges of attempted murder and arson.

Calls for Justice and Stronger Protection for Women

The brutal incident has sparked outrage among gender-based violence (GBV) advocacy groups, who are now demanding swift justice and more proactive measures to safeguard women in domestic settings.

“This is yet another example of how unsafe women are, even in their own homes,” a local activist stated.

As Nompumelelo Gumede fights for her life in hospital, her family and community members are calling for urgent action and stronger laws to prevent such attacks in the future.