A community in Mampiyampiya village near Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, has been left in shock following the tragic death of 64-year-old Thandiwe “Thandi” Shozi, who was allegedly killed by her own son in a devastating incident that has sparked outrage among residents.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday, 2 July 2026, while Thandiwe was preparing food inside her traditional hut. According to reports, her 35-year-old son was at the family home with her shortly before the tragedy unfolded.
It is alleged that the suspect first asked a relative to leave the property to fetch goats. Once the relative had gone, he allegedly set the hut alight while his mother was still inside. Thandiwe was unable to escape the flames and tragically lost her life in the fire.
The horrifying discovery was made later that evening after concerned villagers realized they had not seen Thandiwe throughout the day. One resident reportedly raised the alarm, prompting several community members to visit her home. Upon arrival, they found the hut completely destroyed by fire, with Thandiwe’s body inside.
According to witnesses, the suspect fled the scene after noticing villagers approaching. Residents attempted to chase him, but darkness made it difficult to catch him, allowing him to escape. He remains on the run.
Family spokesperson Bona Khumalo described the incident as the culmination of years of fear and abuse allegedly suffered by the family. He claimed the suspect had a history of violently attacking both his mother and sister without provocation, forcing family members to seek refuge at neighbours’ homes on numerous occasions.
Khumalo further explained that Thandiwe was the family’s primary provider and worked tirelessly to support those around her despite the challenges she faced. Her death has left the family devastated and struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
Reports circulating on social media claim the suspect attempted to justify his alleged actions by accusing his mother of constantly taking photographs of him with her cellphone. However, community members reportedly disputed this explanation, saying the phone she owned did not even have a camera. It is further alleged that the suspect later changed his version, claiming she used the phone’s flashlight to harass him. These claims have not been independently verified.
Police have since opened an investigation into the incident, and a large-scale manhunt is underway to locate the 35-year-old suspect. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to report it immediately to the nearest police station rather than confronting him.
The tragedy has angered many residents, with some community members expressing frustration over the shocking loss of a woman described as caring, hardworking and devoted to her family. Family representatives have also appealed for calm, warning against acts of mob justice while police continue their search.
Thandiwe Shozi’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of her loved ones and has once again highlighted the devastating impact of violence within families. As investigations continue, her family and the Nongoma community are mourning the loss of a woman remembered for her kindness and dedication.
May Thandiwe “Thandi” Shozi rest in eternal peace.
About the Author
