Ina Bonnette is a South African rape survivor who became widely known following her former husband Johan Kotze's brutal attack. Her experience involved a three-hour period of torture, mutilation, and the murder of her son, Conrad Bonnette by Kotzé on 3 January 2012. This shocked the nation and drew attention to the pervasive issue of violence against women in South Africa.The monster and his men, Daily Maverick, 3 April 2012. Retrieved 27 March 2025
Ina Bonnette was in a relationship with Kotze and lived together in the town of Modimolle, in Limpopo from October 2010 to 2011, when they broke up and lived separately.Modimolle Monster's wife testifies, IOL, 20 November 2012. Retrieved 9 August 2023.
In January 2012, Kotze along with his three workers and accomplices - Andries Sithole, Pieta Mohlane and Frans Mphaka, orchestrated a brutal attack on her.Women come in support of Ina Bonnette, Sowetanlive, 10 February 2012. Retrieved 27 March 2025 She was tortured by driving nails into her breasts and pinching her with pliers, all while professing his love for her. He then instructed the three men to rape her. Kotze then shot her son, Conrad.Modimolle Monster trial horror details emerge, Sowetan, 19 November 2012. Retrieved 12 August 2023. Kotze was eventually arrested, along with his accomplices,How the monster almost got away, City Press, 14 January 2012. Retrieved 9 August 2023. and sentenced to two life sentences and an additional 25-year sentence.Government welcomes sentencing of Johan Kotze, South African Government, 17 July 2013
In October 2021, Bonnette published a book titled Ina, ’n Verhaal van Genade en Genesing ("Ina: A Tale of Mercy and Healing",), which chronicled her traumatic experience, the abuse she endured, and her path toward healing.
Bonnette continues to live in Modimolle, near the house where the attack occurred.
Aftermath and healing The emotional and physical scars left by Kotze’s actions took a significant toll on Bonnette. She underwent 20 surgical operations.Ina Bonnette describes ordeal in new book, IOL, 19 October 2021. Retrieved 27 March 2025
Bonnette noted that writing Ina, ’n Verhaal van Genade en Genesing was part of her recovery process.
See also Gender-based violence Domestic abuse Crime in South Africa
References
Further reading Bonnette, Ina (2021): INA, 'n Verhaal van genade en genesing. South Africa. Maughan, Karyn (2013): Love Is War: The Modimolle Monster. South Africa: Jacana Media (Pty) Ltd. Paperback First Edition.