Update: 9 December, 1:30pm
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape have expressed serious concerns over the portrayal of the murder of 16-year-old Kwakhanya Mhlanganisi as a homophobic attack, which occurred on 4 December 2025 in Site C, Khayelitsha.
Following an altercation with two acquaintances, Mhlanganisi was assaulted and later died from his injuries, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Although some reports have prematurely labelled the murder as homophobic, authorities stress that the motive remains unconfirmed.
In a bid to combat misinformation, SAPS spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut underscored the need for clarity, stating that while a swift investigation led to the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect, who appeared in the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ court, a second suspect is still at large.
‘We find it necessary to correct this misinformation to prevent unnecessary alarm within a community already burdened by high levels of violent crime,’ Traut remarked.
He emphasised the importance of waiting for definitive conclusions as the investigation unfolds.
Colonel Traut reiterated that the case is still under investigation, with authorities working diligently to uncover the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
‘The focus of our investigators will be to establish the true motives behind this heinous act,’ he noted, urging the public and media to refrain from drawing conclusions before all facts are known.
Residents of Khayelitsha stood outside the Khayelitsha Magistrates Court on Monday to demand justice after the body of 16-year-old Kwakhanya ‘Ntlanganiso’ Mhlanganisi was found in Site C with multiple injuries, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to the Daily Voice, community leaders said the killing appeared to be motivated by homophobia. Sibusiso Orestes Nqunqeka of the Khulani Khayelitsha Queer Hub described the attack as brutal.
Police confirmed they opened a murder case after members found a victim with multiple injuries and that a 17-year-old was arrested and appeared in court.
The National Prosecuting Authority said the matter will return to court for a bail application and that the State intends to oppose release.
Organisers vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until they see meaningful action from authorities and stronger protections for LGBTQ+ youth in the area.
News24 pointed out in a recent report that SAPS statistics does not have a department for these killings.
Legal and social-support groups have urged, transparent investigation and victim support services. If you have information relevant to the investigation, contact Khayelitsha SAPS or the NPA office handling the case.
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