Mbabane- A domestic dispute driven by jealousy and mistrust has resulted in a criminal conviction after a man admitted to assaulting his former girlfriend, telling the court he was hurt by her alleged infidelity.
Simanga Ngcobo of Ngwenya under Chief Sipho Shongwe appeared today before Mbabane Magistrate C. Mtsatfwa where he pleaded guilty to a charge of assault in contravention of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act of 2018. The charge relates to an incident that occurred on March 26, 2026, in the Oshoek area in the Hhohho region.
According to court proceedings, Ngcobo unlawfully assaulted his ex-girlfriend, Noziwe Tsela, by striking her twice on the face with open hands.
In mitigation, the accused apologised for his actions, telling the court that he was emotionally hurt by the complainant’s behaviour. He alleged that the complainant would leave their rented flat under the pretext of visiting her home, only for him to later discover that she was seeing another partner.
Ngcobo further explained that they had been in a relationship for eight years and were living together with the complainant’s two children.
Presiding Magistrate C. Mtsetfwa sentenced Ngcobo to pay a fine of E1,000 or, alternatively, serve one year in prison.
In delivering judgment, Mtsetfwa cautioned the accused against allowing emotions to dictate his actions. She advised that individuals should walk away from relationships when faced with warning signs, rather than resorting to violence.
She stressed the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and upholding the law, particularly in matters involving domestic relationships.
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