Woman Convicted in Limpopo Acid Attack Case Expected to Be Sentenced
The Mokopane Regional Court is expected to deliver sentencing proceedings involving Yvonne Maja, who was previously found guilty of attempted murder in connection with a high-profile acid attack case in Limpopo.
The matter relates to an incident that took place in October 2024 in Mogoto village, near Zebediela. According to court records and earlier reporting, the attack followed a personal dispute involving a romantic relationship. Authorities indicated that the incident occurred at the home of the victim’s partner, where tensions between the individuals involved escalated.
The survivor, Mmapeu Neo Hlanga, sustained serious injuries during the attack and required extensive medical treatment, including hospitalisation and ongoing care. Reports state that she was initially treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a specialised facility for further treatment due to the severity of her burns.
During the trial process, the court examined multiple pieces of evidence, including video footage recorded on the day of the incident. Testimony confirmed that the footage was reviewed as part of the case and was considered an important component in establishing the sequence of events.
The footage reportedly showed interactions between the accused and the survivor shortly before the attack occurred. According to earlier reporting, the video played a significant role in court proceedings, with officials verifying that it had not been altered.
The magistrate ultimately found Maja guilty of premeditated attempted murder. The verdict followed careful consideration of witness testimony and the available evidence presented during the trial.
The attack has drawn widespread public attention across Limpopo and beyond, with many community members expressing concern over the impact of interpersonal disputes escalating into serious violence. Community groups and residents in the Zebediela area have previously organised fundraising initiatives to assist Hlanga with her recovery and ongoing medical needs.
Hlanga has spoken publicly about the long and difficult recovery process she has faced since the incident. She indicated that healing has taken time and that additional medical procedures may still be required as part of her treatment journey.
Medical professionals have advised that some reconstructive procedures can only proceed once earlier injuries have sufficiently healed. As a result, her recovery remains ongoing, highlighting the long-term consequences often associated with serious burn injuries.
Authorities initially opened the case as assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm before upgrading the charge to attempted murder following further investigation. The suspect was arrested in February 2025 and later granted bail of R3,000 while court proceedings continued.
The case was subsequently transferred to the Mokopane Regional Court, where several hearings took place over the course of 2025. During this period, the survivor provided detailed testimony, while prosecutors relied on both witness accounts and digital evidence to present their case.
The guilty finding marked a significant development in the legal process, with the court emphasising the seriousness of the offence. The judgment was described by the survivor as a moment that restored her confidence in the justice system after a prolonged and emotionally difficult legal journey.
The upcoming sentencing phase is expected to determine the legal consequences that will follow the conviction. Sentencing decisions in such matters typically take into account factors including the nature of the offence, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any mitigating or aggravating elements presented during proceedings.
Legal experts note that attempted murder convictions can result in substantial custodial sentences, depending on the court’s assessment of intent and the impact on the victim.
The case continues to highlight broader concerns about relationship-related violence and the importance of legal accountability. Community leaders have previously urged individuals experiencing conflict to seek mediation or legal assistance rather than resorting to harmful actions.
As the sentencing proceedings move forward, many residents and observers are expected to follow developments closely. For the survivor and her family, the outcome represents another step in a long process that began with the events of October 2024.
Court officials have indicated that updates on the final sentencing decision will be provided once proceedings are concluded.