Prominent South African Duo in Court for Alleged Assault on Pregnant Woman

In a case that has sparked widespread outrage and concern, Wendy Mbatha, a renowned influencer and the sister of South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha, together with her boyfriend Senzo Cele, appeared in the Pinetown magistrate's court on Tuesday facing serious allegations. The couple was taken into custody in KwaMashu on Sunday, following a disturbing incident at the Pavilion mall in Durban.

Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala, spokesperson for the police, reported that the duo was implicated in the assault of Snothile Gumede, a woman who is three months into her pregnancy. The incident was propelled into the public eye after a video surfaced on social media platforms, showcasing a violent altercation where men tried to restrain an individual seen hitting the pregnant woman.

The viral spread of the video led to heightened scrutiny and widespread condemnation, with netizens calling for justice for Gumede. The prosecution, led by Olwethu Mdladlamba, has charged Mbatha, 40, and Cele, 35, with assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm. It is also reported that the couple spat on the victim during the assault.

The prosecutor indicated that critical evidence, such as video footage, witness accounts, and the medical J88 form—which documents the extent of Gumede's injuries—were yet to be procured. In their defense, advocate Vusi Khathi expressed concern over the arrest of his clients before the conclusion of the investigation. Highlighting their occupational status, Khathi mentioned that Cele is engaged in money lending and the skincare business while Mbatha serves as the Chief Operating Officer of a company.

Magistrate Nompumelelo Ndlovu has since set bail for each accused at R1,500 and rescheduled the case for April 29, allowing time for further examination of the case facts.

KwaZulu-Natal social development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza took the opportunity to commend the police force for their prompt response in detaining the alleged offenders. MEC Khoza condemned the attack as a violation of the tenets of humanity and decency and urged for the perpetrators to be subjected to strict judicial consequences.

This case has shone a spotlight on the issues of violence against women and the protection of vulnerable individuals, resonating with a wider national and global call for the eradication of such heinous acts within society.