Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
13 June 2025
The Police in Leslie have launched an investigation into a case of attempted murder and an inquest, following a tragic incident in Lebohang on Thursday, 12 June 2025.
According to preliminary reports, a 30-year-old male, identified as John Masuku, allegedly set himself alight along with his 28-year-old female partner and a two-year-old toddler, after accusing the woman of infidelity during an argument at their residence.
It is alleged that the suspect poured petrol over himself and the woman who was holding the child at the time and then ignited the fuel. The woman and toddler managed to escape and sought help from nearby relatives.
Emergency services were contacted, and all three individuals were transported to hospital. The child, due to the severity of her injuries, was transferred to another medical facility for specialised care. Unfortunately, the suspect succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at the hospital.
The police have since opened a case of attempted murder, and an inquest docket has also been registered.
The female victim and the child remain hospitalised as the investigation continues.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, strongly condemned the violent act and urged community members to seek professional assistance when facing personal or relationship challenges. “This incident is deeply disturbing and highlights the need for peaceful conflict resolution. Violence is never the answer, there are resources and professionals available to help those in distress,” said the General.
