Eastern Cape Woman Dies After Alleged GBV Assault at Car Dealership, Partner Arrested

A 51-year-old woman from the Eastern Cape has died under suspicious circumstances following an alleged gender-based violence (GBV) assault at a car dealership in Mthatha. The incident, which reportedly took place on May 31, involved her 57-year-old partner who was arrested shortly after her death on Friday.

According to provincial police spokesperson Captain Welile Matyolo, the woman had visited her partner at his workplace when the alleged assault occurred. “The suspect physically assaulted the victim at his workplace and took her to hospital on June 1. The suspect claimed his lover was assaulted by unknown thugs near the dealership,” Matyolo said.

Hospital Visit Ends in Sudden Death

Following the incident, the man transported the injured woman to hospital and later visited her, reportedly bringing refreshments. However, her condition worsened rapidly.

“The victim subsequently became sick and died at about 2pm that same day. Based on preliminary investigations using available electronic evidence, the suspect was arrested on Friday at about 7pm,” Matyolo confirmed.

Authorities are awaiting post-mortem results to establish the exact cause of death.

Police Urge Swift Justice

The acting OR Tambo district commissioner, Brigadier Vukile Ntuli, praised the arrest and emphasised the importance of securing justice.

“We can no longer tolerate this brutal violence against women,” Ntuli said. “I commend the officers involved and urge them to ensure a conviction is secured.”

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