Skeem Mafenya Murder: Three Suspects, Aged 17 to 23, Arrested

Mafenya, whose real name was Khadziyane Ndivhuwo, was 20 years old

Police have arrested three suspects over the murder of comedian Skeem Mafenya, 20, as friends and fellow creators pay tribute to a young talent.

Police have arrested three suspects, aged between 17 and 23, in connection with the murder of Limpopo comedian and content creator Skeem Mafenya. He was stabbed in the early hours of Saturday, 17 October 2026, in Madonsi Boltman B in the Malamulele policing area. The suspects are expected at the Malamulele Magistrates' Court on a murder charge. The allegations are unproven.

Key facts

Mafenya, whose real name was Khadziyane Ndivhuwo, was 20 years old.
Police received a report at about 3.35am on Saturday of a person lying motionless in a yard in Madonsi Boltman B.
He had multiple stab wounds to the upper body and was declared dead at the scene.
The motive remains unknown.
Three suspects have been arrested, and all are due in court.

The investigation

Police said officers arrived to find Mafenya with multiple stab wounds, and emergency personnel were called, but he was declared dead at the scene. Limpopo police provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Petrus Scheepers had earlier condemned the killing and promised to mobilise all necessary resources to bring those responsible to justice. A murder case was opened, and a manhunt followed. Police have not said what they believe led to the attack. Because at least one suspect is a minor, details that could identify him cannot be published.

Tributes from the creator community

Friends and fellow content creators have paid tribute, describing a gifted, creative young man whose content brought joy to many. One friend wrote that Mafenya's life mattered and that the people responsible must face justice. Another creator called him one of the most talented to emerge from the area. A third tribute said "Heaven has gained a joker" and promised to keep sharing his work. Many reflected on how a young life with a bright future had been cut short.

What this means for you

Information still matters. Police continue to appeal for anyone who may know more to come forward. Contact investigating officer Lieutenant Colonel Fhumulani Ragimana on 082 729 0229, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app to report anonymously.

Respect the process. Avoid sharing unverified claims or the names of any minors online. Doing so can hurt the family and the investigation.