By Rorisang Modiba
After kwaito legend Mapaputsi’s death, some of his so-called ‘friends’ in the music industry tried to exploit the situation for money, the family says.
Mapaputsi was famous for his hit song Izinja.
Anonymous family members told City Press: “During this vulnerable time, some people have taken advantage to gain money through ‘manipulation’ and ‘scavenge’ tactics.”
The family accuses a so-called friend of trying to extort money from them after Mapaputsi’s death.
The person offered to move the musician’s body from Durban to Johannesburg and handle the costs. The family believes this was a trick to make them use a specific undertaker. When they refused, the body was held for ransom.
The ‘friend’ demanded R50,000 for the paperwork needed for the death certificate. He also asked for Mapaputsi’s mother’s bank details without explanation.
After pressure, including a fight at Mapaputsi’s home and help from the police, the Funeral Industry Reformed Association, and the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, the family got the body and documents back.
They said the stress worsened Mapaputsi’s sick mother’s condition.
Mapaputsi (real name Sandile Ngwenya) died at 45 after being ill for over a year. His manager, Busi Kunene, confirmed his death on 5 September.
A press statement and media briefing are expected soon.
The family wants privacy and respect and is setting strict rules to stop people from taking advantage of them.
Pictured above: Mapaputsi.
Source: X
