A 27-year-old Limpopo woman has been sentenced to seven years’ direct imprisonment for setting her ex-boyfriend’s house on fire in Villa Nora. Meriam Tutje was convicted of arson by the Lephalale Regional Court on 24 March.
The court heard that Tutje unlawfully and intentionally set fire to the house at Steve Biko Phase 4 in Villa Nora in what police described as an act driven by anger and jealousy. The fire caused extensive damage to the house and the victim’s belongings.
The case was investigated by Sergeant George Lebudi of the Villa Nora Detectives, whose work led to the conviction.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the sentence and praised both the investigating officer and the prosecution. “The sentencing sends a strong message that acts of violence and destruction of property will not be tolerated,” said Hadebe.
She urged community members to resolve disputes peacefully. “Community members are urged to resolve disputes amicably and to seek assistance from relevant structures such as psychologists, pastors, police, community leaders and social workers rather than resorting to criminal conduct,” she said.
