Police have arrested a 24-year-old suspect following intense public outcry on social media over an alleged brutal domestic assault in Umlazi, Durban. The swift action came less than 48 hours after the 31-year-old victim, identified in reports as celebrity hairstylist Snenhlanhla Nenezane Mthembu, publicly shared graphic images of her injuries and accused authorities of failing to act on her previous reports of abuse.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, January 9, 2026, at V Section in Umlazi. According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the victim went to her boyfriend’s residence to collect her belongings when he allegedly lured her inside and attacked her. The suspect is accused of assaulting her with a pipe, striking her with his hands, biting her, and then pursuing her as she fled, damaging the rear windscreen of her vehicle.
Mthembu sustained severe injuries, including bruises, swelling, and burn wounds, and is currently receiving hospital treatment. In a series of viral posts, she shared photos and videos of her injuries, pleading for justice and questioning whether authorities would only believe her “when he kills me.” The posts quickly gained traction, sparking widespread condemnation and calls to address gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
Police responded rapidly to the case opened at Umlazi police station. “Hardly 48 hours after the case was reported, police have arrested a 24-year-old suspect,” Netshiunda stated. The man remains in custody and is expected to appear in court soon on charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property.
Investigations uncovered a complicating factor: the victim allegedly set the suspect’s vehicle alight during the altercation, reducing it to ashes and sustaining burn injuries in the process. Once discharged from hospital, she will face counter-charges of assault and malicious damage to property. Authorities noted that the couple has a documented history of mutual cases, some previously heard in court but not always classified as domestic violence incidents.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) emphasized their commitment to addressing such complaints promptly and urged couples in romantic or domestic relationships to resolve conflicts peacefully through family, friends, or professional support rather than resorting to violence.
This case has reignited national conversations about GBV in KwaZulu-Natal, the challenges victims face in securing timely police intervention, and the growing influence of social media in amplifying survivors’ voices and pressuring authorities for accountability. Public figures, including ANC MPL Fikile Masiko, chairperson of the KZN legislature’s standing committee on quality of life, have commented on the matter, welcoming the arrest while highlighting broader systemic issues.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent scourge of domestic violence in the province and the role public pressure can play in driving justice. Resources for support include South Africa’s GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428.
