Durban hairstylist Snenhlanhla Mthembu recovers in ICU as her salon remains a place of support

The family of Durban hairstylist and salon owner Snenhlanhla Nenezane Mthembu has confirmed that she is recovering in hospital following a widely reported domestic violence incident that sparked public concern and national attention.

In a statement released this week, the family said: “The family of Snenhlanhla Nenezane Mthembu, owner of Nenezane Hair Studio, would like to confirm that she is currently recovering in the ICU and is in good spirits."

"We are sincerely grateful for the support and concern shown by the public during this time. The family respectfully requests privacy as they focus on her recovery. Nenezane Hair Studio remains open and is operating as normal.”

Mthembu’s name became widely known earlier this week after she shared a series of posts on social media describing alleged abuse by her boyfriend and expressing frustration about what she claimed was a lack of response to cases opened with police in Lamontville and Umlazi.

Her posts spread rapidly and prompted strong reactions from the public, civil society groups and public figures who called for accountability and urgent intervention.

In one of her posts, Mthembu wrote: “This is my final attempt to call for help, and try to arrest this monster who has been abusing me physically from the day we started dating.”

She also expressed concern about previous attempts to seek assistance, saying: “I have opened four cases with failure because no police get near him.”

Another post read: “Nizokholwa (you will believe me) when he kills me?” The message resonated with many South Africans, triggering an outpouring of online support.

The KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Office acknowledged the matter, while organisations such as Crime Watch RSA confirmed that the case was being escalated for further attention due to concerns about its initial handling.

The growing public pressure led to a formal police update. KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed that a 24-year-old man had been arrested in connection with the case.

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said that officers took note of the widespread public concern following reports that a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm had been opened at Umlazi police station on January 9.

“Hardly 48-hours after the case was reported, police have arrested a 24-year-old suspect in connection with the alleged assault of his 31-year-old girlfriend and malicious damage to her vehicle during a domestic violence-related incident,” said Netshiunda.

Police further confirmed that the suspect is expected to appear in court soon. Netshiunda added that investigations indicated that the couple had previously opened cases against each other, some of which had already been dealt with through the courts.

He urged couples to seek help before conflict escalates.

“Police are encouraging partners in any domestic relationship to resolve their differences amicably or seek help from trusted confidants so that they do not resort to violence,” he said.

If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence, help is available through South African hotlines such as 0800 428 428, 0800 150 150 or Childline at 0800 055 555.