Former South African giants Orlando Pirates and Swallows midfielder Thandani Ntumaelo appeared in court on Monday, February 5, on charges of assaulting his girlfriend.
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The 34-year-old, known as 'Bibo', was released on bail of R1,000 after being charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
domestic violence allegations
Mr Ntumaelo's girlfriend claims the incident happened at his home on Friday, February 2. During an argument between Mr. Ntumaelo and her friends, she intervened to calm him down.
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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane detailed the charges. “Ntumaelo then allegedly became aggressive towards her, slapping her in the face, grabbing her head and slamming her against a wall. He claimed that.”
Ntumaelo's case was adjourned until April 4 for further investigation. This follows a similar case involving another former Orlando Pirates player, Thembinkosi Roach, who received a suspended sentence and fine for assaulting his ex-girlfriend in December 2023.
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Gender-based violence activists highlighted the ongoing fight against domestic violence and criticized Roach's sentence as lenient.
Ntumaelo retired from professional football last year after a successful career spanning over 10 years. He played for prominent South African clubs such as SuperSport United and of course Orlando Pirates, earning him caps for the South African national team.
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However, his career was tarnished in 2016 when he was suspended for testing positive for a banned substance, which was later reduced on appeal.
Orlando Pirates and the shadow of domestic violence
Ntumaelo's case highlights the alarming prevalence of domestic violence, particularly involving individuals associated with high-profile clubs such as Orlando Pirates.
As the Rev. June Dolly Major emphasized regarding Roach's sentencing, “The judiciary doesn't seem to understand the impact of violence on people.” The upcoming trial will be closely watched in the hope that justice will be served and that it will send a strong message against gender-based violence within and outside Orlando Pirates and South African football.
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