Residents of Letsitele, near Tzaneen in Limpopo, are reeling after a shocking case of violence against a 41-year-old domestic worker, Priscilla Mmusi. Priscilla was allegedly attacked by her employer, who not only pointed a firearm at her but also set two dogs on her following an argument.
According to reports, the confrontation began after a dispute between Priscilla and her employer, identified as 33-year-old Janian Koek. Sources close to the family claim that the argument stemmed from Priscilla’s frustration after she was barred from purchasing alcohol. Her husband had reportedly warned a local liquor store not to sell alcohol to her, saying she became violent when intoxicated. This incident allegedly sparked the altercation that led to the brutal attack.
Witnesses say Priscilla was found unconscious on the roadside by hawkers, her body covered in injuries. She suffered severe wounds to her face and hands, believed to have been caused by the dogs that were released on her. The bystanders immediately called for help, and she was rushed to a nearby hospital where she spent four days recovering from her injuries.
Although Priscilla has since been discharged, her recovery has been slow and painful. Family members say she has lost parts of her memory and now struggles to recall basic personal details, including her ID number. They describe her as traumatized and fearful, unable to comprehend what happened to her. “She’s not the same person we knew,” one relative said. “We want justice for what was done to her.”
The accused, Janian Koek, was arrested and appeared before court, where he was charged in connection with the attack. Shockingly, he was granted bail of R2 000, a decision that has sparked outrage among community members and activists who believe the punishment does not fit the gravity of the alleged crime.
Community leaders and residents have expressed deep anger and disappointment over the incident, calling it a clear example of violence and abuse of power. They have demanded that justice be served and that harsher action be taken against Koek. “No one deserves to be treated like an animal,” a community elder said. “This woman was working hard to provide for her family, and now she’s left scarred for life.”
Police investigations are ongoing as Priscilla continues her slow path to recovery. Her family is urging authorities to ensure that her attacker faces the full might of the law. They have also appealed for support to help with her medical care and rehabilitation, as she struggles with memory loss and emotional trauma following the attack.
The case has reignited conversations about the vulnerability of domestic workers in South Africa and the urgent need for stronger protections and fair treatment within private households.
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