'Battered' woman arrested for murder of life partner

A 31-YEAR-old Kimberley woman was arrested after she allegedly fatally stabbed her life partner during the early hours of Monday morning.

Neighbours and family members claimed that she had suffered ongoing abuse, while their three children – aged 12, 10, and two – were also allegedly subjected to abuse and domestic violence.

It is believed that the couple quarrelled on Sunday before leaving their home to buy groceries.

Later that evening, they apparently went out again, where another argument reportedly broke out shortly before the deceased was stabbed in Colville.

The suspect’s family stated that although she had obtained protection orders against the deceased in the past, she would never have intended to kill him.

They also claimed that she had recently been brutally assaulted, with her face left badly bruised and swollen.

“The children were usually taken to their grandparents’ home whenever incidents of domestic violence occurred,” they said.

Neighbours claimed that the deceased’s family had since threatened to burn down the couple’s home in Floors.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock confirmed that the Kimberley Serious and Violent Crimes Unit was investigating a case of murder, after a 31-year-old woman allegedly fatally stabbed her 33-year-old life partner in Colville.

“The alleged incident took place on May 26 at about 12:40am, following a brief altercation between the couple,” said Kock.

He said the suspect was arrested and is expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court soon.

“Any information can be forwarded to Detective Warrant Officer Thabang Kamolane on 082 302 0407 or the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. The MySAPS app can also be used. All information will be treated confidentially. The investigation continues,” Kock added.