Woman Sentenced to 18 Years’ Imprisonment for Acid Attack on Mmapeu Hlanga
Mokopane, Limpopo – The Mokopane Regional Court has sentenced Yvonne Maja to 18 years’ direct imprisonment after finding her guilty of the attempted murder of Mmapeu Hlanga in a widely reported acid attack case that shocked the local community.
The sentence was handed down on Monday, 9 February, following the conclusion of a trial that detailed a disturbing sequence of events surrounding the attack, which occurred on 13 October 2024 at Mogoto Village outside Lebowakgomo. The case stemmed from a personal dispute linked to a love triangle involving a man identified in court as Kgotlelelo Phasha.
In addition to the 18-year sentence for attempted murder, Maja was also sentenced to a further two years’ imprisonment for the unlawful act of pouring acid on the victim. The court ordered that the two-year sentence run concurrently with the 18-year sentence, meaning Maja will effectively serve 18 years in prison.
During the trial, the court heard harrowing testimony from the victim, Mmapeu Hlanga, who provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack. Her version of events was supported by video footage that played a critical role in the prosecution’s case.
According to evidence presented, Maja went to the residence where Hlanga was present, despite the relationship between Maja and Phasha having ended. The footage showed the accused displaying intense anger and an inability to accept the termination of the relationship. The court heard that Maja repeatedly refused to leave the premises even after being asked to do so.
The video evidence further revealed that Maja made verbal threats during the confrontation. She allegedly threatened to release intimate images of Hlanga and claimed that she had already caused the victim to lose her employment. These statements were presented as part of the prosecution’s argument that the accused acted with clear intent to intimidate and harm.
One of the most critical moments highlighted during the trial involved Maja’s actions shortly before the attack. The footage showed her opening a lunch bag and removing what appeared to be a standard Tupperware-style water bottle. She claimed she was thirsty and stated that she wanted to retrieve her bag, which she said she had left inside the house earlier.
The court heard that the bottle did not contain water, but acid. The video showed Maja slowly approaching Hlanga under the guise of conversation before pouring the corrosive substance onto her. The attack left Hlanga with serious injuries and emotional trauma.
The defence argued that the incident was unintentional and that Maja did not plan to harm the victim. However, the magistrate rejected this argument, stating that the video evidence clearly demonstrated premeditation. The manner in which the accused brought the acid to the scene, concealed it, and waited for an opportunity to use it was cited as proof of deliberate intent.
In delivering judgment, the magistrate emphasised the seriousness of acid attacks and described them as acts that not only cause physical harm but also long-term psychological and emotional suffering. The court found that Maja’s actions were calculated and showed a complete disregard for the life and dignity of the victim.
The court further noted that crimes driven by jealousy and possessiveness cannot be excused and must be met with severe consequences to serve as a deterrent. The sentence, the magistrate said, reflected the gravity of the offence and the need to protect society from similar acts of violence.
Following the sentencing, Mmapeu Hlanga expressed gratitude for the support she received from the public throughout the trial. She thanked community members, activists, and those who stood by her during what she described as one of the most difficult periods of her life.
The case has reignited public discussion around gender-based violence and the use of corrosive substances as weapons, with many calling for continued awareness, stronger prevention measures, and support for survivors of violent crimes.
About the Author
