Ha Pita women found guilty of assault

The Matala Local Court has convicted two women from Ha-Pita of assaulting another woman and damaging her property, following an incident sparked by allegations of malicious gossip within the village.

The accused, ‘Mantsoaki Leqheka (36) and Mabasili Moeketsi (26), were charged in connection with an attack on ‘Makhoboso ’Nyane (45). The matter was heard on Tuesday this week.

Testifying before the court, ’Nyane told the court that the incident occurred while she was at home sewing, as she works as a tailor.

She said the two women arrived at her house and called out to a child who was outside, asking where she was. After being told she was inside, they allegedly entered the house without knocking and began accusing her of spreading rumours about them.

’Nyane testified that Leqheka became violent during the confrontation, picked up a screwdriver and attempted to stab her. In the process, she sustained an injury to her mouth. She further told the court that as she tried to defend herself, Leqheka pushed a glass table, which fell and shattered.

According to ’Nyane, Moeketsi did not intervene during the incident and instead stood by as the assault unfolded.

Fearing for her safety, ’Nyane said she ran outside and asked a child to fetch his older brother for assistance. She added that the two women continued to insult her outside the house. She later reported the matter to the village chief, who advised that the case be reported to the police.

The complainant told the court that she had regarded Leqheka as a sister and felt deeply betrayed by the attack. She also alleged that Leqheka was having an affair with her husband.

Medical evidence was submitted in court, showing that ’Nyane received treatment at hospital for a mouth injury caused by the screwdriver. A medical report indicated that the injury was serious and could have resulted in the loss of her front teeth.

In their defence, Leqheka and Moeketsi denied assaulting ’Nyane but failed to provide a convincing account to rebut the evidence presented.

Court President Mathuntsi Ntšala found both accused guilty and sentenced them to one year’s imprisonment or a fine of M1,000 each. Both opted to pay the fine.