Atlantis community shocked after man charged with axe murder of 67-year-old mother-in-law

AN Atlantis man is expected to appear in court for the alleged murder of his mother-in-law in a brutal axe attack.

The 67-year-old woman was killed in late January; however, the 35-year-old suspect was arrested earlier this week. 

Provincial police spokesperson, Thembakazi Mpendukana, confirmed the incident. 

“Atlantis SAPS has opened a murder case on Monday, January 26, at 1.20am against a 35-year-old male suspect who assaulted his 67-year-old mother-in-law to death with an axe in Pearl Mansion, Avondale.

"The suspect was arrested on Monday, February 9, and once charged, he will appear at Atlantis Magistrate's Court,” Mpendukana said. 

Police do not have a confirmed date for when the suspect will appear in court, as he is still hospitalised at this stage. 

Atlantis Ward Councillor, Allister Lightburn, expressed shock at the heinous crime. 

“Crimes like this break down the social and moral fibre of any community, and it can be seen as normal, which is not. The community should rise to this occasion and fight this scourge of gender-based violence,” he said. 

Anti-gender-based violence organisation Ilitha Labantu condemned the killing.

The organisation’s spokesperson, Siyabulela Monakali, said: “Every incident of fatal violence against a woman is a stark reminder that women remain at risk in homes, families and communities where they should be safe. The sad reality is that in many cases, the alleged perpetrators of violence against women are known to the victims.

“Fatal incidents frequently occur within domestic or family contexts, underscoring the deeply entrenched nature of violence in private spaces. When harm is inflicted by someone known or trusted, it compounds the trauma for families and highlights the urgent need for stronger prevention and early intervention mechanisms,” Monakali said. 

He urged the criminal justice system to ensure this matter is handled with the seriousness it warrants. 

Cape Times