A Delft woman who claims her neighbour threatened to throw acid in her face after she rejected his advances says she is living in gear after learning that he had been released, despite a criminal case being opened against him.
Lutho Mazamisa, 32, questioned how her alleged attacker was released an why she was not informed of developments in the case raising concerns about how police handle threats against women.
Mazamisa said she initially approached police to open a criminal case but allegedly advised to apply for a protection order instead. She expected the accused to appear in Bellville Magistrate's Court on October 28, 2026, but claims she was told on arrival that he had already been released and would not been appearing.
“I was very shocked when I was told that he would not be appearing in court and that he was already released.
“I also provided the police with all the evidence they requested from me. The community accompanied me to court and we were very frustrated when we were told that he has already been released and will not be appearing.
“I still don’t understand why he was released. I’m scared, as I do not know what he might do next.”
Police confirm arrest
However, upon arrival at court, she was allegedly informed that he would not be appearing and had already been released. She claims the South African Police Service (SAPS) did not inform her about the development.
She says police also asked her to provide evidence of threats allegedly made by the man, adding to her distress as she continues to fear for her safety.
After enquiries, SAPS confirmed that they arrested a 33-year-old male for intimidation and appeared in court on 28 October 2026 and the docket was returned for further investigation.
Constable Ndakhe Gwala said: “Delft police arrested a 33-year-old male for intimidation. He appeared in court on 28 October 2026 and the docket was returned to the investigating officer for further investigation.”
The matter has drawn further attention after other alleged victims reportedly indicated their willingness to come forward with accounts involving the same man.
CONCERN: Caroline Peters, founder of the Callas Foundation
Mazamisa says she was surprised when she received a text from one of the victims claiming to have been previously abused by the man.
She said: “When one of his victims contacted me I was surprised to learn that she was also harassed and abused by the same man. I’m feeling unsafe and it shows that this man is dangerous, but he’s still not behind bars.”
Callas Foundation’s Caroline Peters has expressed concern over the allegations, and said there must be clear communication with the women about their cases, and threats against women must not be ignored until they escalate into physical violence.
Peters said: “A woman's right to reject unwanted advances should never result in threats or intimidation. Women must be able to report threats and trust that their safety will be taken seriously.”