Woman Stands Trial for AK-47 Attack on Ex-Boyfriend

**Shocking Incident in Pietermaritzburg**

A woman accused of shooting her former boyfriend and father of her child with an AK-47 appeared in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on charges of attempted murder.

Nokulunga Penelope Mthethwa (39), a resident of Henley Dam, was arrested earlier this week after a disturbing video went viral. The footage showed her standing over the injured man, who lay on the ground after she had allegedly shot him. The victim is currently in the hospital receiving medical treatment.

## **Brutal Attack Captured on Video**

The viral footage also shows Mthethwa kicking and striking the victim with the rifle during the violent altercation in Azalea, Pietermaritzburg. According to eyewitness accounts, Mthethwa arrived at the scene in a car, carrying the firearm.

A witness reported, “She argued with the man, who was walking with another woman, and then shot him multiple times.”

## **Police Investigation and Firearm Tracing**

Sergeant Sifiso Gwala, spokesperson for the uMgungundlovu police, confirmed that their investigation revealed a heated argument between Mthethwa and the victim before the shooting. She allegedly fired three shots into his abdomen and another into his leg.

Authorities launched a comprehensive investigation, involving multiple law enforcement units, including the uMgungundlovu SAPS District Task Team, SAPS Trio Crimes Task Team, SAPS E2 District Project, and Aphiwe Protection Services. They traced the firearm and determined that it belonged to Mthethwa’s current boyfriend, who works as a security guard.

## **Legal Proceedings and Bail Application**

Following her initial court appearance on Thursday, Mthethwa was transferred to Westville Correctional Centre. She is scheduled to return to court on February 6 for her bail application.

The shocking incident has drawn significant attention, with many questioning how she obtained the high-powered weapon and what led to such a violent outburst. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case.

The case is expected to unfold further in court, where Mthethwa will seek bail while the victim continues his recovery in the hospital.