Renowned South African TikToker Dubula Mbatha, 32, has tragically passed away after being fatally shot at KwaSteve Shisanyama in Jules, Johannesburg, on Sunday, December 8, 2024. The Nongoma-born social media personality, known for his passion for maskandi music, succumbed to his injuries on Monday, December 9, after being rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
A close friend who was with Mbatha during the incident recounted the devastating moments leading up to the tragedy. According to him, Mbatha had insisted on visiting KwaSteve Shisanyama for a braai.
“We ordered meat and asked the braai master to prepare it for us. While I went to fetch the meat, Dubula went to buy pap and cool drinks. Minutes later, gunshots rang out. I rushed to the scene and found out Dubula had been shot,” the friend told Daily Sun.
Legendary maskandi musician Ali Mgube mourned Mbatha’s untimely death, expressing condolences to his family and the broader maskandi music community.
“It’s deeply hurting for all of us as we’ve lost him. I extend my condolences to his family and maskandi fans, as we knew him as one of us,” Mgube said.
Mbatha was celebrated for his unwavering support of maskandi music, frequently using his TikTok platform to promote and defend the genre. His death has sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the music community.
Gauteng Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the fatal shooting, 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, Johannesburg, on the evening of Sunday, December 8, 2024.”
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the killing.
Mbatha’s death marks a tragic loss for South Africa’s cultural and online communities, leaving many mourning the senseless end to a life dedicated to celebrating and sharing local music.