New Year's Day turns deadly after two friends fight over girlfriend
Man killed in fight over girlfriend.
Image: File/ Boxer Ngwenya
A 41-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly killing his friend during a fight over a girlfriend in Bohlokong, Free State.
Provincial police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said that on January 1, 2026, the group of men were drinking when an argument broke out.
The dispute stemmed from allegations that the deceased was having an affair with the suspect’s girlfriend.
"During the confrontation, both men allegedly armed themselves with a spade and a spade fork that were lying in the garage. The suspect allegedly stabbed the deceased in the face with a spade fork before fleeing the scene," said Mophiring.
Mophiring added that the injured man was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment but succumbed to his injuries.
"He sustained a fatal open stab wound to the face. Police were called to the hospital and immediately initiated an investigation."
The suspect later handed himself over to the police.
He has been charged with murder and is expected to appear before the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court on Monday, January 5, 2026.
The weapon used in the commission of the crime has been seized as an exhibit.
IOL