Gender-based violence: Woman shot in the abdomen by her 'friend', at her workplace

A 45-year-old Mpumalanga man, Johannes Khoza has appeared before the Mbibane Magistrate's Court facing charges of attempted murder as well as for possession of an unlicenced firearm.

Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said Khoza was remanded in custody and the case was postponed to May 7. Khoza’s first court appearance was on March 3, where he was also remanded in custody.

“According to a (police) report, on Saturday, March 1 2025 at approximately 8:30pm, the victim was at her workplace in Leeuwfontein, Vaalbank, when she was called outside by her ex-male friend. It is further alleged that she was threatened with death by the suspect,” said Ndubane.

“It was during the time when she peeped through the window, when the suspect reportedly shot her in the stomach.”

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Thereafter, Khoza fled the scene. The injured woman was then taken to hospital for medical treatment. She has since been discharged from hospital.

A case was opened and following intensive police investigations, Ndubane said a .38 Special revolver, as well as some live ammunition were found in the yard. 

The ammunition was wrapped in a cloth hidden under a stone. Khoza was arrested and subsequently charged.

Meanwhile, acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has welcomed Khoza’s arrest. 

He also condemned the acts of violence allegedly displayed by Khoza, adding that the police in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and community groups will continue to combat gender-based violence and femicide.

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jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL