Mbabane – The Mbabane magistrates court has sentenced Musa Dlamini, 30, of Mncitsini, after he was convicted of assaulting his girlfriend and threatening her with knives in violation of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act of 2018.
Court evidence showed that the incident unfolded when Dlamini returned from work and found their baby crying alone at home. He alleged that his girlfriend, Tengetile Khoza, had left the child unattended while she went to a drinking spot. When Khoza later returned, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, a heated argument erupted.
During the confrontation, Dlamini claimed Khoza pulled out a knife, sparking a scuffle. He admitted to slapping her several times in the face but argued that it was a reaction to her behaviour. The court also heard that Dlamini threatened to stab her with two different knives during the altercation.
Prosecutors told the court that regardless of the circumstances, Dlamini had no right to resort to violence and that his actions placed Khoza in serious danger.
In mitigation, Dlamini pleaded for mercy, saying he is the sole provider for the family. He told the court he supports their child, Khoza, and other relatives, as his father is no longer employed.
Magistrates sentenced him to a fine of E2,000 or two years in prison if he fails to pay. A further E3,000 of the sentence was suspended for three years, on condition he does not commit a similar offence within that period.
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