Harrismith – A 24-year-old man has been arrested for the alleged murder of his 52-year-old father, Thomas Amos Mokoena, after reportedly pouring boiling water over him during an argument at their home in Makgolokweng Village in the Free State.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident occurred on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, when the father and son allegedly got into an argument.
“During the altercation, the suspect allegedly poured boiling water over his father’s upper and lower body, causing severe burns,” police said.
Mokoena was initially taken to a local hospital in Harrismith before being transferred to a hospital in Phuthaditjhaba for further medical treatment.
He remained hospitalised for approximately 15 days before succumbing to his injuries.
Police said they were informed of his death by hospital authorities on 14 October, in the presence of his wife.
“A murder case was subsequently opened, leading to the arrest of the suspect,” SAPS said.
The Harrismith Detective Service arrested the suspect, who is expected to appear before the Harrismith Magistrates’ Court soon on a charge of murder.
The allegations against the accused have not yet been tested in court.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Unsplash
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
