Giyani – In a heart-wrenching turn of events in Nwakhuwani Village, Giyani, a vicious gender-based violence attack claimed the life of 43-year-old Esther Michavi in the early hours of Wednesday. The incident, occurring around 00:30, saw Esther fatally stabbed multiple times by a man alleged to be her boyfriend.
A man who attempted to intervene was also wounded in the assault. The distressing event unfolded in a house still under construction, where Esther and her four children sought refuge at a friend’s place due to challenges in her relationship with the accused.
According to the Police Spokesperson in Limpopo Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the suspect, exploiting a door left unlocked, gained access and unleashed a horrifying assault on Esther.
“Despite the owner’s courageous attempts to halt the attack, the assailant turned his violence towards her before she fled to seek help from the community,” said SAPS Spokesperson Hlulani Mashaba.
“A valiant individual endeavored to rescue Esther but was also gravely injured by the suspect, who fled the scene afterward,” added Mashaba.
The Paramedics confirmed Esther’s passing at the scene while the injured man received urgent medical attention at a nearby facility.
Expressing shock and dismay at the incident, Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the bravery displayed by the man who attempted to rescue Esther from the attacker.
The Commissioner also highlighted the tragic impact this senseless act of violence will have on Esther’s children.
“This incident is deeply saddening, leaving profound emotional wounds, especially for Esther’s children,” stated Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
“Such a brutal attack is a setback for us, particularly during the ongoing 16 Days of Activism campaign against Violence towards Women and Children.” Added General Thembi Hadebe.
As investigations continue, authorities have opened a case of murder and attempted murder in pursuit of justice for Esther and the wounded individual..
