Domestic work warning after assault

AN OVERPORT woman who had her throat slit with a bread knife and was left for dead, allegedly by her domestic worker, is recovering from the brutal attack, while the suspect is on the run.

The 48-year-old woman from Lumi Road, who wants to be known only by her first name, Fathima, recounted the “horrific” experience to the Sunday Tribune Herald shortly after her discharge from hospital this week.

“The domestic worker worked for us for three days and her child was with her. On the third day she demanded R35000. When I said I didn’t have the money, she drew a bread knife from under her dress and began stabbing me, then used it to slit my throat, in full view of her child,” said Fathima.

When she lost consciousness, the domestic worker dragged her into a bathroom and covered her with rugs. “She thought I was dead. She closed the bathroom door and ransacked the house.”

Laptops, phones, cash and handbags were stolen, said Fathima, who was later found by her 8-year-old son when he returned from school.

Fathima had none of the worker’s personal information because she was newly appointed.

“I did ask for her ID document. She promised to bring it, but never did,” Fathima said.

Her husband, who asked not to be named, has video footage of the domestic worker leaving their home.

“We are trying to escalate this matter to a provincial level because we are dissatisfied with the way the SAPS Mayville handled it.

“We need as many people as possible to be aware of this incident as we believe this domestic worker could do this elsewhere. She takes her child with her so that people feel sorry for her,” said the husband.

Police spokesperson Captain Nqobile Gwala said a case of attempted murder had been opened at Mayville police station.