Community members in Boikutso village are appealing for urgent intervention to protect 23-year-old Precious Mathebula, who is allegedly abused at home. Pictures Credits: Mapulaneng News
By Duncan Mnisi
Bushbuckridge – Serious allegations of abuse have been raised against the mother of a 23-year-old mentally challenged woman, Precious Mathebula, from Boikutso village in Bushbuckridge.
Concerned community members allege that Precious has been subjected to ongoing physical and emotional abuse, forcing her to repeatedly flee her home in search of safety. Residents say she lives with her mother in the Bompa Matches section, where she is allegedly beaten for minor issues and, at times, chased out of the house late at night as punishment.
Community members further claim that Precious has visible scars on her body and has allegedly lost some of her teeth as a result of the abuse.
“Every time she disappears from home, it’s because she is running away from pain and fear,” said one resident who asked to remain anonymous. “She needs love and care, but instead she lives in constant danger.”
Residents allege that both the South African Police Service and social workers are aware of Precious’s situation but have failed to find a lasting solution. Some believe the case has not been treated with the urgency it deserves because it involves a female perpetrator and a female victim.
“There is a belief that abuse is not taken seriously when it is woman-to-woman,” said another concerned community member. “But abuse is abuse, regardless of who is responsible.”
A neighbour, Sthembile Nsuku, described the situation as complex and deeply troubling, suggesting that the mother may also suffer from mental health challenges.
“Social workers have tried to intervene, but sadly, those efforts did not succeed,” Nsuku said. “I am very concerned about the rest of the family. In order for both to receive proper help, they need to be separated. That is the only way they may find peace.”
The matter has sparked strong reactions on social media, where users have shared their concerns and personal experiences involving Precious. In one widely shared comment, Tintswalo Stoboloza claimed to have witnessed efforts by social workers and taxi drivers to assist Precious during one of her attempts to return home from Johannesburg.
“I was with her on 27 October when social workers handed her over in Johannesburg to return to Bushbuckridge,” Stoboloza wrote. “They asked taxi drivers to help her travel safely. She only had her ID and was in a hurry. Even a Cure Marshal bought her food. I saw it with my own eyes.”
Another individual, Wandile Enhle Noko, also shared an encounter with Precious, saying, “I saw this girl last Tuesday in Hazyview. She told me she was looking for a taxi to White River.”
Community members are now calling on the Department of Social Development, SAPS, and family protection units to urgently intervene. They warn that without swift and decisive action, Precious’s life could be in serious danger.
“All we are asking is for her to be rescued before something terrible happens,” said one resident. “She deserves a safe home, dignity, and care—just like any other human being.”
