By Staff Reporter
MOKGOLOBOTO – A 20-year-old woman from Mokgoloboto Village, outside Tzaneen, has been discharged from hospital after surviving a brutal attack allegedly carried out by her ex-boyfriend.
Desree Mohau Letsoalo was left fighting for her life after she was reportedly assaulted with pieces of a tombstone by her ex-husband, Josias Letsoalo, in Matafuleng, Mokgoloboto Village, on Saturday night, October 18, 2025.
According to her family, Josias allegedly dragged Desree away from her friends at a local liquor spot, accusing her of cheating before assaulting her until she lost consciousness. He then allegedly dragged her to his house, leaving her with severe head injuries.
Desree’s sister, Motlatso Letsoalo, revealed that her sibling had endured over a year of physical and emotional abuse from Josias. “She’s been through so much. I raised her since she was two years old. My only wish is for her to move on, go to university, and have a better life,” said Motlatso.
The family detailed a pattern of violence that allegedly began in January 2024, when Josias first slapped Desree after accusing her of talking to another man. The abuse reportedly worsened after he received R2.7 million from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in February 2025, which allegedly fueled his infidelity and controlling behavior.
“He cheated with her friend. When she tried to leave, he refused to be dumped,” Motlatso added.
Desree’s aunt, Maggie Letsoalo, expressed anger and heartbreak over the repeated abuse.
“We are hurt and we want justice served. He must be locked away to learn a lesson,” she said.
Community activist Miyelani Ramojela has urged the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure swift justice, condemning gender-based violence and calling for stronger protection for women in abusive relationships.
After being discharged, Desree vowed never to return to Josias. “I am not going back. This time he will kill me. I want to open a case against my friend who helped him,” she said.
Despite her physical recovery, she still requires psychological support and medical scans to assess possible internal injuries.
The suspect, Josias Letsoalo (31), made his first court appearance at Ritavi Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, October 28, where the case was briefly heard and postponed to November 6, 2025, for further investigation.
