Shock and grief have engulfed the Limpopo village of Thengwe after a 26-year-old teacher — a former Deal or No Deal contestant and key witness in a rape case against self-proclaimed prophet Phathutshedzo “Prophet Muritho” Sikhuba — was brutally gunned down just moments after leaving an all-night church service.
According to police, the tragedy unfolded around 4 a.m. on Saturday as the young teacher was boarding a taxi home. An unknown assailant opened fire, killing her instantly and critically injuring a 69-year-old woman and a 55-year-old taxi driver. The incident has shaken the province and renewed concerns about the safety of women and witnesses in South Africa.
A Witness Silenced
The slain teacher was a key witness in a high-profile rape case involving Prophet Sikhuba, who faces multiple charges of sexual assault. Authorities have not confirmed whether her murder is directly linked to the case, but Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that detectives are investigating all possible motives.
“No arrests have been made at this stage,” Ledwaba said. “We are not ruling out a connection to the ongoing court case.”
Friends and community members revealed that the victim had been living in fear since testifying earlier this year. She allegedly received threats and pressure from church members urging her to withdraw her complaint. Some even offered her money and “spiritual counselling” in exchange for silence — offers she firmly rejected.
“She said she would not be silenced,” said local resident Claudia Tshilidzi. “They tried to bribe her, but she stood her ground. Now she’s gone.”
An Outcry for Justice
The murder sparked outrage on social media, with many calling her a hero who paid the ultimate price for telling the truth.
“She died after praying,” one Facebook post read. “How can we live in a country where witnesses are killed outside church?”
Local youth leader Pertunia Thakhani described the incident as “a message meant to silence others,” warning that many witnesses will now fear coming forward.
Residents held a candlelight vigil outside the teacher’s home on Sunday, singing hymns and calling for justice. Described as a dedicated educator who taught mathematics and life orientation, she was celebrated for mentoring young girls and inspiring them to pursue education and self-respect.
Prophet Sikhuba’s Controversial Case
Prophet Phathutshedzo Sikhuba, known for his “spiritual cleansing” sessions, was arrested earlier this year following multiple accusations of rape and sexual exploitation. He denies all charges and remains out on R10,000 bail.
Sources close to the case confirm that the slain teacher was one of the key witnesses expected to testify next month — making her death a significant blow to the prosecution.
“She believed that truth would win,” said one church member. “She never imagined her faith would lead her to death.”
Government and Public Response
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba condemned the murder, calling it “a dark day for justice and women’s rights.” She urged police to act swiftly, emphasizing that “this young woman showed courage that few have.”
Human rights advocates have also renewed calls for stronger witness protection programmes, warning that the justice system is failing those who stand up against powerful figures.
“If witnesses can be killed this easily, justice cannot prevail,” said activist Tumelo Ramashia.
A Final Farewell
The teacher’s funeral will take place on 17 October 2025 at the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Thengwe, where hundreds are expected to gather in mourning and defiance.
As the community grieves, her story stands as both a tragedy and a testament — a reminder of the price many pay for courage in the face of corruption and fear.
She went to pray for peace — and met her death instead. Yet in her silence, her voice for justice grows louder than ever.
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