Atlantis man vas for allegedly hacking mother-in-law to death with an axe

A man in Atlantis in the Western Cape is expected to appear in court soon for the alleged murder of his mother-in-law. 

The 67-year-old woman was hacked to death with an axe in late January; however, the 35-year-old suspect was arrested earlier this week. 

Provincial police spokesperson, Thembakazi Mpendukana, confirmed the incident. 

“Atlantis SAPS has opened a murder case on Monday, January 26, at 1.20am against a 35-year-old male suspect who assaulted his 67-year-old mother-in-law to death with an axe in Pearl Mansion, Avondale. The suspect was arrested on Monday, February 9, and once charged, he will appear at Atlantis Magistrate's Court,” Mpendukana said. 

Police do not have a confirmed date for when the suspect will appear in court, as he is still hospitalised at this stage. 

Police have no motive for the murder at the time. 

Atlantis Ward Councillor, Allister Lightburn, expressed shock at this heinous crime. 

“Crimes like this break down the social and moral fibre of any community, and it can be seen as normal, which is not. The community should rise to this occasion and fight this scourge of gender-based violence,” he said. 

Lightburn stated he will be opposing the bail of the suspect and urged the law to take its course in this matter. 

Anti-gender-based violence organisation Ilitha Labantu condemned the killing.

The organisation’s spokesperson, Siyabulela Monakali, said the killing of women in South Africa continues to reflect the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence and femicide.

“Every incident of fatal violence against a woman is a stark reminder that women remain at risk in homes, families and communities where they should be safe. The sad reality is that in many cases, the alleged perpetrators of violence against women are known to the victims.

“Fatal incidents frequently occur within domestic or family contexts, underscoring the deeply entrenched nature of violence in private spaces. When harm is inflicted by someone known or trusted, it compounds the trauma for families and highlights the urgent need for stronger prevention and early intervention mechanisms,” Monakali said. 

He urged the criminal justice system to ensure this matter is handled with the seriousness it warrants. 

“Accountability in cases of fatal violence against women must be firm, proportionate and consistent. Justice processes must reflect the gravity of the offence and affirm society’s responsibility to protect women from harm,” Monakali said.