By Theodorah Waga Mawasha
MOSSELBAY – A 19-year-old South African teenager, Nhlamulo Sambo, originally from Giyani, Limpopo, was allegedly stabbed to death on Saturday, 31 May 2026, in KwaNonqaba, Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
According to his family, Nhlamulo was attacked during violent unrest linked to anti-immigration protests after being mistaken for a foreign national. His only “fault,” they say, was speaking Xitsonga in a predominantly Xhosa community.
In a Facebook post, his sister Nonhlanhla Sambo wrote:
“They killed my brother as if his life meant nothing. My 19-year-old little brother was stabbed to death during the xenophobic protests in Mossel Bay. His only ‘fault’ was being Tsonga in a predominantly Xhosa community. Justice must be served, and we will not remain silent.”
Nhlamulo’s mother, Nkateko Patricia Sambo, appealed for help to lay her son to rest in Giyani, saying in a video:
“They killed my son like a dog, saying he is a foreigner, whereas my son is a South African citizen from Giyani, Limpopo. I am deeply hurt and in pain. Please, South Africans, help me bury my son.”
His uncle, Solly Mashele, told SABC Xitsonga News that Nhlamulo was dragged and assaulted despite repeatedly telling the mob he was Tsonga, not a foreigner. Another family member was reportedly threatened during the unrest.
The incident has sparked outrage across South Africa, with calls for an end to xenophobia, tribalism, and violence against fellow South Africans. Police investigations are underway, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend those responsible. Authorities have confirmed at least two deaths during the weekend unrest.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has condemned the killing, expressing condolences to the family and reiterating that violence against fellow South Africans under any pretext is unacceptable. The movement called for constructive dialogue on immigration, job creation, and economic justice, while emphasizing that these challenges must never justify vigilantism or the targeting of innocent citizens.
“This young life, full of promise and potential, was tragically cut short,” said the movement. “We stand firmly with those seeking justice for Nhlamulo Sambo and his family.”
The community, civic organizations, and human rights groups have called for swift justice and stronger measures to prevent similar acts of violence in the future.
