Lindiwe Dlamini, aged 22, has been sentenced to either two years’ imprisonment or a fine of E5,000 for arson, after setting her boyfriend’s house ablaze, resulting in damages exceeding E50,000.
Appearing before Mbabane Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi, Dlamini faced charges under the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018 and arson. She admitted guilt to all charges, explaining that her actions were driven by anger following an altercation where her boyfriend allegedly assaulted her and accused her of infidelity.
The incident occurred on August 27, 2023, in the Dlangeni area, where Dlamini set fire to Mlandvo Dlamini’s residence while he was asleep. The blaze destroyed property valued at E49,655, including an iPhone 7 worth E3,000.
During her plea, Dlamini apologized for her actions and highlighted her ongoing education commitments as a mitigating factor. The damaged items listed included a variety of household goods such as a television set, fridge, and kitchen utensils.
In a separate case heard in the same court session, Sipho Tsabedze, 27, was convicted of housebreaking and theft, and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of E5,000 for stealing items worth over E17,000.
These cases underscore the judiciary’s stance on crime, emphasizing accountability and adherence to the law within the community.
