The South African TikTok community is mourning the loss of Dubula Mbatha, a 32-year-old personality known for his passionate advocacy for maskandi music.
Mbatha, from Nongoma in KwaZulu-Natal, gained a significant following on TikTok for his outspoken support of maskandi music and his willingness to confront those who criticised the genre. His close friend, who was present at the scene and requested anonymity, recounted the tragic events.
"I was with him on Saturday, but he insisted we go to the shisanyama on Sunday for a braai at Jules. We ordered meat and asked the braai master to prepare it for us. We agreed I'd get the meat while Dubula went to buy pap and cool drinks. After a few minutes, I heard gunshots, and everyone was in shock. When I rushed to the scene, I found out Dubula had been shot," the friend explained.
The friend described the scene as chaotic and filled with shock following the sudden gunfire.
Mbatha was initially shot and critically wounded at KwaSteve Shisanyama on Jules Street in Malvern, Johannesburg. He was rushed to hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries on Monday, 9 December.
The shooting took place at a Sasol garage near Jules Hostel in Jeppestown, where Mbatha was reportedly visiting friends. Sources indicate that he was shot sixteen times.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo, confirmed the incident, stating, "Police have opened a case of murder and are on the lookout for suspects after a 32-year-old man was shot and killed in Malvern, Joburg, on the evening of Sunday, 8 December 2024. The motive for the killing can't be confirmed at this stage. Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can assist in the investigation or help in the arrest of the suspects to call the nearest police station or CrimeStop on 08600 10111."
@dubulambatha1
Sikhakhane, who recently played a key role in negotiations for the Durban Long Distance Taxi Association during a strike, did not publicly respond to the insults. However, those familiar with Sikhakhane expressed concern for Mbatha's safety.
Mbatha subsequently posted an apology video, addressing Sikhakhane as his "older brother" and retracting his earlier insults, specifically referring to a previous statement calling Sikhakhane "a little boy". Despite this apology, the situation appears to have escalated tragically.
Sources suggest that a gunman suddenly appeared at the petrol station and opened fire on Mbatha. Another source indicated that multiple individuals could be suspects, given Mbatha's history of online confrontations, particularly with those who criticised maskandi artist Mthandeni "Gcokama elisha" Mdletshe.
The maskandi music community is also deeply saddened by Mbatha's death. Legendary maskandi musician Ali Mgube expressed his condolences, stating, "I'd like to convey condolences to his family. It's deeply hurting for all of us as we've lost him. I extend my condolences to maskandi fans as we knew him as one of us."
This sentiment reflects the widespread grief and shock felt throughout the maskandi community and beyond. The police investigation continues, with appeals for anyone with information to come forward and assist in apprehending those responsible for this tragic event. Lieutenant Colonel Masondo reiterated the police's appeal for information, stating that the motive remains unknown.
