A 39-year-old woman is expected to appear before the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 2 February 2026, where she will face a charge of attempted murder following a violent incident that took place at a Shoprite store in Namakgale, Limpopo.
The suspect was arrested on Thursday morning, 29 January 2026, at approximately 08:50, after allegedly stabbing a 40-year-old pregnant woman who was also employed at the same retail store. The incident unfolded during normal working hours and caused shock among staff members and shoppers who were present at the time.
According to information provided by the South African Police Service, the victim had been on her way to work when she received a phone call from a colleague. During the call, she was informed that a woman was at the store asking to see her. The victim proceeded to work as usual and, upon arrival, went to the storeroom to collect stock items needed for shelf packing.
While carrying out her duties, the victim reportedly noticed the suspect approach her. The two women exchanged greetings, and there was no immediate indication that an altercation would occur. Police reports state that moments after this brief interaction, the suspect allegedly produced a knife and attacked the victim without any apparent warning.
The suspect is said to have stabbed the victim multiple times, resulting in several injuries. The sudden nature of the attack caused panic inside the store, prompting store security personnel to intervene quickly. Security officers managed to restrain the suspect and prevent further harm, while also assisting the injured woman.
Emergency Medical Services and police officers were called to the scene immediately. Paramedics provided initial medical care before transporting the victim to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Due to the seriousness of the incident and the fact that the victim was pregnant, medical staff conducted thorough examinations to ensure the safety of both the woman and her unborn child.
Police officers arrested the suspect at the scene and confiscated a sharp object believed to have been used during the attack. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect may have arrived at the store with the intention to cause harm. It is alleged that she pretended to shop by loading groceries into a trolley, including a set of knives, before selecting one to carry out the stabbing.
At this stage, the motive behind the attack has not been established. Authorities have not confirmed whether there was any prior conflict between the two women, and investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances that led to the incident. Police have urged members of the public to avoid speculation while the matter is still under investigation.
In an update provided by police, it was confirmed that the victim has since been discharged from Maphutha Malatji Hospital. She is currently recovering at home and receiving follow-up medical care. Importantly, both the woman and her unborn baby are reported to be in good health, much to the relief of her family, colleagues, and the wider community.
The incident has raised concerns about safety in workplaces, particularly in public retail environments where employees interact with both colleagues and customers daily. Retail staff often face various challenges, and this incident has highlighted the importance of effective security measures and rapid response protocols in preventing further harm during emergencies.
Shoprite management has not released a detailed public statement regarding the incident but is understood to be cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities. Store management has also reportedly offered support to affected employees in the aftermath of the incident.
The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to make her first court appearance where formal charges will be presented. During the court proceedings, the state is expected to outline the allegations against her, while the court will determine matters relating to bail and further legal processes.
Police have confirmed that investigations are continuing and that additional information will be released once it becomes available. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation has been encouraged to contact the nearest police station.
As the case proceeds through the legal system, it serves as a reminder of the importance of workplace safety, mental health awareness, and conflict resolution. Authorities continue to emphasize that violence is never an acceptable solution and that incidents of this nature are taken seriously under the law.
