MBABANE – Derby bliss turned sour when Mbabane Highlanders midfielder Siwakhile ‘Swakis’ Shongwe was brutally attacked in Pigg’s Peak on his way home.
The terrifying incident completely overshadowed a massive weekend for his club on the pitch.
The high-stakes Mbabane derby took place at Somhlolo National Stadium this past Sunday, where the result was in favour of Mbabane Highlanders, who defeated bitter rivals Mbabane Swallows by 1-0.
However, the celebratory mood turned into a nightmare for the talented midfielder when he was attacked during his journey back home just hours after the final whistle.
Shongwe suffered a deep laceration to his left hand during the ambush, which required major emergency surgery to repair severed tissue. He was admitted to the nearest Pigg’s Peak Government Hospital.
Reflecting on the traumatic ordeal, the player explained that he was attacked by three individuals during his journey back from the match. “I was attacked by three individuals on my way home at Pigg’s Peak after the derby. Luckily, I know two of them and I hope they will be caught soon.”
Following the ambush, he was rushed to hospital for emergency medical attention. “I was rushed to Pigg’s Peak Government Hospital, as I sustained a deep cut on my left hand.
“I was taken to theatre on Tuesday of which went well, but it took the doctors longer hours to locate the severed tendon. I am now discharged and the doctors told me to return next week Wednesday for a check-up.”
Siwakhile’s father, Sipho ‘Kwena’ Shongwe, confirmed the harrowing ordeal and expressed deep concern over the gruelling medical procedure his son had to endure. “Yes it’s true and he was in bad state. On Tuesday, he went to the theatre from 9am and stayed there for longer hours still trying to fix the tendon that was separated,” he said.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
Mbabane Highlanders star Siwakhile Shongwe in this undated file picture was reportedly attacked after the big derby. (Inset) The player suffered a deep cut to his left hand during the ambush.