A community in KwaMashu, north of Durban, is mourning the brutal death of Sphiwe Ndlanzi, a 39-year-old man who had recently overcome years of drug addiction and was determined to turn his life around.
For nearly 18 years, Sphiwe struggled with whoonga addiction. But earlier this year, he joined a faith-based rehabilitation programme and successfully completed it. When he returned home in July, he was clean, focused, and full of hope for a better future. His transformation inspired many in the community, especially young people battling similar struggles.
According to his sister, Nomaswazi Ndlanzi (33), Sphiwe’s new beginning was tragically cut short after he was accused by a relative of stealing a firearm. The relative, who was reportedly drunk at the time, had lent the gun to someone else, and when it went missing, suspicion wrongly fell on Sphiwe. The firearm was only found after his death, clearing him of any wrongdoing—but far too late.
Nomaswazi said her brother was ambushed and brutally attacked by a group of men who used spades and sjamboks to beat him. The attackers allegedly knocked out his teeth, stripped him of his clothes, and poured cold water over his battered body. Despite one family member’s attempt to intervene, the assault continued until Sphiwe was severely injured and unresponsive.
When he began to lose consciousness, the attackers reportedly covered him with a blanket and abandoned him near a local clinic. The following morning, Nomaswazi received word that someone matching her brother’s description had been dropped off outside the clinic, but without any identification. He was later found lying helpless beside the road, badly beaten and exposed to the cold.
Despite efforts to find and save him, Sphiwe succumbed to his injuries. His death has devastated his family and the KwaMashu community, who describe him as a kind-hearted man who had worked hard to overcome his past.
“Sphiwe had changed his life,” said Nomaswazi. “He was helping other people fight their addictions and wanted to show that recovery was possible. It breaks my heart that he died this way—especially after everything he had been through.”
Police spokesperson Captain Ntathu Ndlovu confirmed that a murder investigation is underway. The case is being handled by the KwaMashu police, and early reports indicate the attack occurred near a clinic on Monday, 13 October 2025.
Sphiwe’s story is one of tragedy and redemption—of a man who conquered his demons only to be betrayed by violence and suspicion. His family is now pleading for justice, while community members call for peace and an end to mob violence.
His death serves as a painful reminder that even those who strive to change their lives deserve compassion, protection, and a second chance at life.
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