Sipho Yika, a 44-year-old man from Tweefontein in Mpumalanga, is recovering from serious injuries after a brutal assault that has left him physically and emotionally scarred. The attack occurred on March 31, 2024, at around 3 p.m. when Sipho was allegedly beaten for nearly three hours by his brother and several neighbours at his family home.
“I was assaulted with knobkerries, sjamboks, fists, and kicks. I thank God I’m alive,” Sipho said, reflecting on the violent ordeal. “I was left with severe injuries, and I’ll live with these scars for the rest of my life. The pain still lingers.” He explained that during the attack, he was shouted at with accusations of breaking a neighbour’s window—an accusation Sipho firmly denies. “I didn’t break any windows. I don’t know why they attacked me like this. I’m not a thug,” he said.
Sipho claims that at least seven people were involved in the assault, including three women and four men. They also allegedly stole personal items from him, including his hat, spectacles, gold ring, and bracelet. The assault left Sipho severely injured, with bleeding from his ear and stomach, and he was hospitalized for two days at KwaMhlanga Hospital.
“I was bleeding badly, and the pain is still with me,” he said. “When it’s cold or raining, the pain gets worse. But what hurts even more is the betrayal. To be beaten by your own brother and neighbours—it’s something I will never forget.”
Sipho now seeks justice, insisting he was attacked for something he did not do. He hopes those responsible, including his brother, will be arrested and held accountable for their actions. “I want justice because I didn’t deserve to be beaten like this,” he said. “When I walk around my village now, people look at me differently. The trust is gone.”
Sipho’s mother, Julia Motaung (80), expressed deep concern over the attack on her son. “He is no longer the same person after that beating. He’s traumatised, and it breaks my heart,” she said. “I want to see justice for him. He didn’t deserve what happened.”
Mpumalanga police have confirmed that a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm has been registered. Police spokesperson Captain Nkosi Magonseni stated, “We can confirm that the case has been opened, and we are currently investigating the matter. We will provide updates as the investigation progresses.”
Sipho remains hopeful that justice will prevail, allowing him to begin healing both physically and emotionally.
