A 27-year-old woman from Limpopo is fighting for justice after she was left permanently disfigured in a horrifying acid attack believed to have stemmed from a love triangle. Mmapeu Neo Hlanga, from Sekgweng Village in Zebediela, was allegedly attacked in October 2024 by Ivyone Maja (25), who accused her of being romantically involved with her boyfriend and the father of her child.

The brutal attack has devastated Mmapeu’s life. She suffered severe burns to her face and body, and her vision has been impaired. The physical scars are deep, but the emotional trauma runs even deeper.

Speaking to Daily Sun, Mmapeu shared the impact the incident has had on her. “I’m no longer the same. This incident affected me negatively. The confident, brave girl in me disappeared,” she said, struggling to hold back tears.

Mmapeu spent eight months in hospital recovering from her injuries. Now, she hopes to undergo reconstructive surgery to restore her appearance — a procedure estimated to cost between R150,000 and R200,000. Without the surgery, she says, she will continue to live as a shadow of the woman she once was.

The alleged attacker, Ivyone Maja, was arrested on 14 February 2025 and appeared in court the following day. She was granted bail of R3,000 and the case has since been transferred to the Mokopane Regional Court. Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed that court proceedings are set to resume on 21 July 2025.

Mmapeu says she is not only seeking justice for herself but also for other women who have endured similar violence due to jealousy, rivalry, or misunderstandings in romantic relationships. “I’m left with physical scars and emotional trauma. I want her to pay for what she did to me,” she said firmly.

The horrific nature of the attack has sparked outrage on social media. Many South Africans have come out in support of Mmapeu, expressing sympathy and urging her to stay strong. One user, Ipeleng Naledi, commented: “I’m sorry you didn’t deserve what happened to you regardless of the situation.” Another, Michelle Mmakoma, offered words of encouragement: “I know it’s not easy but take it one step at a time.”

This incident highlights the dark consequences of romantic disputes turned violent and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of resolving personal issues without resorting to violence. Acid attacks, which are rare but extremely brutal, leave survivors with long-term physical pain, disfigurement, and emotional scars.

As Mmapeu continues to heal and prepare for surgery, she remains focused on her legal battle, hoping for accountability and closure. She also wants her story to raise awareness and stop similar tragedies from happening to other women.

The community and broader South African public now watch closely, waiting to see whether justice will be served.