Cousin arrested after acid attack
A Galeshewe resident suffered severe injuries after being attacked with acid. Picture: Supplied
A GALESHEWE resident counts herself “lucky to be alive” after suffering severe burn injuries when drain acid was thrown in her face.
Her husband, Joseph Voss, expressed concern for his wife, Dora Bergman, who continues to experience vision loss and hearing problems.
“She was admitted to the hospital, where a skin graft had to be performed, and she requires regular medical check-ups. She still experiences excruciating pain,” he said.
Voss mentioned that they are in the process of obtaining an interdict against his wife’s cousin, Itumeleng Bergman, whom he stated was arrested three weeks after the incident.
“My wife and her cousin were involved in an argument about a blocked drain on August 18 as she was on her way to attend a church service. Later that day, she was hanging washing on the line at home when acid was thrown at her from close range,” Voss explained.
Voss reported that the 40-year-old accused, who had been living with them, disappeared after the incident. “I called the police when I found him three weeks later washing cars in town, and he was finally arrested.”
SAPS provincial spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock said the accused chose to abandon his right to apply for bail following his arrest.
“The Galeshewe SAPS are investigating a case of attempted murder after a 40-year-old male allegedly poured acid over his female cousin. The incident happened at their home in Galeshewe on August 18 at approximately 1.45pm,” Kock stated.
He noted that the 52-year-old complainant was reportedly involved in an altercation with the accused when he allegedly poured acid on her face and then fled the scene.
“She was admitted to the hospital for medical attention. Galeshewe detectives followed up on information and arrested the suspect in the Kimberley CBD on September 5.”
Kock added that the case was postponed until October 22. “Anyone with information relating to the incident is requested to contact Detective Warrant Officer Stephen Wax at 082 469 1728. The investigation continues,” he concluded.