Orlando Pirates star, Thembinkosi Lorch has been found guilty by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court for assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Fundiswa Mathithibala on Tuesday, 6th June 2023.
Mathithibal filed for an assault case at Midrand Police Station in September 2020. The soccer player was arrested on 7th September 2020. He was later released on R2000 bail.
It is said the incident took place at the soccer player’s home in Midrand. According to a statement by NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane obtained by TimesLIVE, Lorch became angry after Mathithibala messaged him asking to return her car keys after leaving her alone at his house, On his arrival Lorch became violent and started assaulting her and was rescued by his friend.
“The case relates to a complaint laid with the Midrand police by his girlfriend in September 2020, that resulted in his arrest and subsequent release on bail of R2,000,” said NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane in a statement.
“Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala said she was visiting Lorch when he left her at his home to go out with his friend. Mathithibala saw that it was getting late and messaged him to return her car keys,” Mjonondwane added.
“On arrival, an argument ensued and Lorch became violent towards her and started to strangle her, beat her whilst pulling her up and down. She called for help and his friend came to her rescue.”
The NPA said that the state’s position was that Mathithibala’s medical testimony supported her account of what happened.
“The accused did not have any injuries which meant that he was the aggressor. The accused and his witness did not create a good impression in court and appeared to be not credible witnesses,” Mjonondwane added.
It is said the Orlando Pirates star is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on 28th July 2023.
Main Image: Thembinkosi Lorch| Instagram
