BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- The Royal Eswatini Police Service has arrested two suspects in separate incidents involving violent crime and financial fraud, underscoring ongoing efforts to protect communities and bring offenders to justice.
In Big Bend, police arrested and charged a 35-year-old man from Somntongo with attempted murder following a stabbing incident that occurred on Wednesday, December 25, 2025, at about 9:15pm. The suspect allegedly stabbed a 28-year-old woman from kaPhunga once in the stomach with a sharp object during an alcohol-fuelled altercation at a drinking spot at Game V, Big Bend.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect and the victim are acquainted, although the cause of the dispute remains unclear. After the incident, the suspect reportedly fled the scene and sought refuge at a nearby homestead, where he allegedly disclosed what had happened.
The police were alerted and subsequently arrested him. The victim remains hospitalised in a critical but stable condition, while the suspect is expected to appear in court.
In a separate case, police arrested a 39-year-old man from the Siphofaneni area on charges of theft by false pretences after he allegedly defrauded a 59-year-old man from Mafutseni of E35 000. According to police, the suspect convinced the victim to hand over the money under the false promise that it would be used to purchase a chemical to “wash” money allegedly kept in a trunk box, with assurances of doubled returns.
The money was reportedly handed over during the month of November at the eZulwini area. When the suspect failed to deliver on his promise, the victim reported the matter to Manzini police. The suspect was arrested on Christmas Day and is expected to make his first court appearance.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service has cautioned members of the public against engaging in fraudulent schemes, warning that money cannot be “washed” or multiplied. Police emphasised that such scams are designed to defraud unsuspecting citizens of their hard-earned money.
Police have urged Emaswati to remain vigilant, avoid alcohol-fuelled disputes, and report suspicious activities promptly, as criminals continue to devise new and sophisticated methods to target the public.
#RoyalEswatiniPolice#CommunitySafety#CrimePrevention#JusticeInAction
(Courtesy Pic)
