What started as a seemingly innocent gesture turned into a horrific life-altering nightmare for Mmapeu Neo Hlanga of Zebediela, Limpopo, when a cold drink handed to her from a handbag turned out to be acid.
Neo, unsuspecting and unaware of the danger, was viciously attacked by her former boyfriend’s jealous ex-girlfriend, who allegedly doused her with acid during a confrontation. The assault left Neo with permanent scars across her face and body, both physical and emotional—an act of violence born from envy and rage.
The attacker allegedly concealed the acid in a drink bottle inside her handbag, luring Neo into a false sense of safety before unleashing the corrosive liquid. The community of Zebediela has been left stunned, and calls for justice are growing louder.
This horrifying incident is yet another reminder of the rising tide of gender-based violence in South Africa, where women continue to be targeted in acts of brutal, often premeditated violence. Acid attacks, though rare, are particularly devastating, leaving victims not only physically disfigured but psychologically scarred.
Local authorities have confirmed an investigation is underway, and Neo’s family is calling for maximum charges to be brought against the perpetrator.
Neo’s story is one of survival and resilience, but also a chilling call for tougher action against those who use violence as a tool of revenge or control. As the nation watches, the demand for justice—and change—is louder than ever.
