The Mamelodi community is still reeling from the brutal killing of two cousins, Tshiamo and Baleseng Moramaga, allegedly at the hands of 38-year-old Tebogo Mnisi. The suspect, who reportedly worked as a tavern bouncer, made a brief appearance in the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on 29 October 2025, where he abandoned his bid for bail.
Mnisi faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. His next court appearance has been scheduled for 19 January 2026.
**Alleged Relationship Turned Deadly**
Family members and residents allege that Mnisi had been in a romantic relationship with one of the victims, Tshiamo. According to the victims’ aunt, Maki Moramaga, tensions between the pair had been escalating before the fatal incident. She believes that Baleseng was only trying to protect her cousin when Mnisi allegedly turned his gun on both women.
Following the murders, enraged residents of Mamelodi East reportedly torched Mnisi’s home. He was arrested two days later, on 27 October, during a joint police operation.
**The Tragic Incident**
Reports suggest that an argument broke out between Mnisi and Tshiamo, which quickly escalated into violence. Mnisi allegedly shot Tshiamo before turning the gun on Baleseng, who tried to intervene. He fled the scene but was arrested a few kilometres from where the cousins’ bodies were discovered.
The devastating news has left the family shattered. Their aunt expressed heartbreak over losing both young women in such a brutal manner, while their former landlord, Johanna Mabena, described them as respectful tenants who stayed at her property for five months.
**Community and Public Outcry**
The double murder sparked widespread outrage in Mamelodi and across South Africa. Before Mnisi’s arrest, Moja Love TV owner Aubrey Tau offered a R250,000 cash reward for information leading to the suspect’s capture. Following his arrest, Tau also donated another R250,000 to support the grieving Moramaga family.
The killings have reignited national conversations about gender-based violence (GBV). During the City of Tshwane’s Festive Season campaign launch, Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya condemned the brutal murders and called for decisive action against perpetrators of violence against women. Moya described the killings as “cruel and senseless,” urging communities to stand united in ending GBV.
**Justice Awaited**
As the investigation continues, the Moramaga family and the broader Mamelodi community are demanding justice for Tshiamo and Baleseng. The case has also drawn attention on social media, with many South Africans expressing anger and heartbreak under the hashtag **#JusticeForBalesengAndTshiamo**.
For now, Tebogo Mnisi remains behind bars as the legal process unfolds. The nation watches closely, hoping the court proceedings will bring closure to the victims’ families and justice for the two young women whose lives were cut short by gender-based violence.
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