Harrismith Man Arrested After Alleged Fatal Scalding of Father
A 24-year-old man from Makgolokweng Village has been arrested by the Harrismith Detective Service for the alleged murder of his 52-year-old father, Thomas Amos Mokoena.
The arrest follows a horrific domestic altercation last month that left the older man with fatal burn injuries.
According to police reports, the tragedy unfolded on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, when an argument broke out between Mokoena and his son at their family home.
During the heated dispute, the suspect allegedly poured boiling water over his father’s upper and lower body, causing severe and extensive burns.
Mokoena was rushed to a local hospital in Harrismith for immediate medical attention.
Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to a medical facility in Phuthaditjhaba for specialized care.
He fought for his life in the hospital for approximately 15 days before succumbing to his injuries.
Hospital authorities notified the police of Mokoena’s passing on 14 October 2026, in the presence of his grieving wife.
Following the notification, the South African Police Service (SAPS) upgraded the investigation to a murder case, which swiftly led to the tracking down and arrest of the 24-year-old suspect.
The accused remains in custody and is expected to appear before the Harrismith Magistrates’ Court shortly, where he will officially face a charge of murder.
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