A South African court has delivered a stern sentence in a shocking case of domestic violence, handing down an effective 18-year prison term to a woman convicted of an acid attack on her ex-boyfriend's new partner.
Court Delivers Heavy Sentence for Violent Assault
The Mokopane Regional Court in Limpopo province has sentenced 25-year-old Yvonne Maja to direct imprisonment for 18 years following her conviction for attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The sentencing took place on Monday, February 9, 2026, after Maja was found guilty on December 1, 2025.
Details of the Brutal Attack
The violent incident occurred on October 13, 2024, at approximately 5:30 PM in Mogoto Mabereng, Zebediela, within the Moletlane policing area. According to court records, Maja went to her former boyfriend's residence where she discovered him with his new partner, 27-year-old Mmapeu Hlanga.
An argument erupted between the women, during which Maja allegedly hurled insults at Hlanga before carrying out the horrific attack. The accused poured acid on the victim, causing severe and life-altering injuries. A second victim, a 28-year-old man who was present at the scene, also sustained injuries, though they were less severe than those suffered by Hlanga.
Severe Injuries and Hospitalization
Both victims were immediately rushed to Zebediela Hospital for emergency treatment. Due to the critical nature of her injuries, Hlanga was subsequently transferred to Mankweng Hospital where she remained hospitalized for approximately seven months. The acid caused extensive damage requiring prolonged medical care and rehabilitation.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Following the attack, authorities launched an investigation that led to Maja's arrest on February 14, 2025. She initially appeared before the Lebowakgomo Magistrate's Court, where she was granted bail of R3,000. The case was later transferred to the Mokopane Regional Court for trial proceedings.
The investigation was led by Sergeant Nthapa Judah Swafo, whose diligent work contributed significantly to the successful prosecution and conviction of the accused. The court sentenced Maja to 18 years' direct imprisonment for attempted murder (count one) and two years' direct imprisonment for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (count two), with the sentences to run concurrently.
Police Leadership Welcomes Sentence
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the court's decision, reaffirming the South African Police Service's commitment to tackling violent crimes decisively, particularly those stemming from domestic and relationship-related disputes.
"Such acts will not be tolerated," Hadebe emphasized, "and perpetrators will be held accountable through our criminal justice system." The police commissioner's statement underscores the seriousness with which authorities are approaching crimes of domestic violence and the judicial system's determination to deliver appropriate punishments for such brutal offenses.
This case highlights the devastating consequences of relationship violence and the judicial system's response to such crimes in South Africa. The substantial prison sentence sends a clear message about the severity with which the courts view acid attacks and domestic violence offenses.
