Romance Turns Nightmare: Jealous Woman Jailed For Pouring Acid On Ex-Boyfriend’s New Lover

By Swift Reporter

The Mokopane Regional Court in South Africa has sentenced a 25-year-old woman to an effective 18 years’ direct imprisonment after she was found guilty of attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in a brutal acid attack.

Yvonne Maja received the sentence on February 9, 2026, following her conviction on December 1, 2025. The court imposed an 18-year sentence for attempted murder and an additional two years for assault causing grievous bodily harm, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred on October 13, 2024, in Mogoto Mabereng, Zebediela, where Maja confronted her former boyfriend at his residence and found him in the company of his new partner, identified as Mmapeu Hlanga, 27.

According to court proceedings, an argument broke out during which Maja allegedly insulted the woman before pouring acid on her, inflicting severe and life-altering injuries. A 28-year-old man who was present during the incident also sustained minor injuries.

Both victims were initially rushed to Zebediela Hospital for emergency treatment, while the female victim was later transferred to Mankweng Hospital, where she remained admitted for approximately seven months due to the severity of her injuries.

Maja was arrested on February 14, 2025, and later granted bail of R3,000 at the Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court before the matter was transferred to the Mokopane Regional Court for trial.

Reacting to the judgment, Thembi Hadebe, the Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, welcomed the sentence, saying it reflects the South African Police Service’s commitment to combating violent and domestic-related crimes and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.

Authorities noted that the ruling sends a strong warning against acts of violence driven by personal disputes, emphasizing that such crimes carry serious legal consequences.