In a heartbreaking incident, Rudzani Lutendo Phophi, who was attacked, robbed, and set alight in Makhado Biaba, succumbed to her injuries after weeks of fighting for her life. The young woman, who had been admitted to Siloam Hospital and later transferred to Mankweng Hospital because of the severity of her burns, passed away surrounded by family.
The brutal attack took place on the night of 19 September as Phophi was returning home from work in Dzanani (Biaba). Reports indicate that two unknown suspects ambushed her, striking her with a brick, dousing her with a flammable substance, and setting her alight. The assailants also stole her cellphone before fleeing the scene.
Despite her critical injuries, Phophi managed to roll on the ground to extinguish the flames and received immediate assistance from concerned community members, who rushed her to the hospital.
A video capturing the horrific aftermath circulated widely on social media, prompting an outpouring of grief and outrage from the community and beyond.
Phophi, a 27-year-old breadwinner, leaves behind one child. Her uncle, Joseph Phophi, expressed the family's profound sorrow, saying, "We are devastated; this was completely unexpected. We are now making arrangements for her funeral, and any assistance with burial costs is appreciated."
The family has scheduled her funeral for Saturday, 16 November, in Tshakhuma, and has been receiving support from various women's support organisations.
Mphephu Police Station initially opened a case of attempted murder, which has now been updated, following Phophi's passing. Two suspects have made several appearances in the Dzanani Magistrate's Court, where the case has been postponed to 28 November. They remain in custody as investigations continue.