Vongai Masuka

A 38-year-old Mabutweni man appeared before the Western Commonage Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face attempted murder charges after he allegedly attacked a young child he claimed was a goblin.

The accused, Senzile Nyathi, was not asked to plead when he appeared before Magistrate Jeconia Prince Ncube.

He was remanded in custody until January 8, pending further investigations.The court heard that the harrowing incident took place on Christmas Day at approximately 10:00 PM.

According to prosecutors, the victim, a juvenile was playing in an open space near his home when he was approached by Nyathi.

It is alleged that Nyathi, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time, began shouting in IsiNdebele, “Nangu undofa!” (Here is a goblin!).

The situation turned violent when Nyathi allegedly seized the child and slammed him onto the ground three times. The brutal assault left the juvenile with severe head injuries.

The child was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment.

Following the incident, a formal report was lodged with the police, leading to Nyathi’s swift arrest.

Nyathi remains in custody at Khami Remand Prison as he awaits his next court appearance in 2026.