Kwaito Star Mapaputsi’s Body Held for Ransom by Friend After His Death
Shock As Friend Allegedly Holds Mapaputsi’s Body For R50k Ransom
Kwaito artist Mapaputsi, real name Sandile Ngwenya, made headlines on 9 September after reports surfaced that a friend held his body for ransom following his passing on 5 September at the age of 45.
According to his family, the friend initially offered to transport Mapaputsi’s body from a Durban morgue to Johannesburg at no cost.
However, the family later discovered that the friend attempted to extort money from them.
He allegedly insisted they use a funeral company of his choice and demanded R50,000 for the release of the body, claiming it was needed for the death certificate.
RIP:
Sandile Ngwenya aka Mapaputsi
The Kwaito legend passed away following an illness.
He was 45 years old.
#RIPMapaputsi pic.twitter.com/gimIbXazsW— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) September 6, 2024
The situation escalated when the friend also requested Mapaputsi’s mother’s bank details, raising further concerns.
Authorities, including the police and an anti-corruption organization, had to intervene to secure the body and the required documentation.
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Mapaputsi’s family confirmed that the musician passed away in the hospital after a short illness.
They have asked for privacy as they process his death and expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received.
Mapaputsi, a beloved figure in the South African kwaito scene, had reportedly been bedridden at his Soweto home since late 2023.
Can the nameless friend be arrested already
— Ketlareng Sybil Matlhako (@SybilMatlhako) September 9, 2024
