The community of Mattafin, Nelspruit, is reeling from a tragic incident that has left residents heartbroken. Lusanda Mathabela, a 19-year-old young woman, was fatally stabbed in her own home on the evening of November 3, 2025.
According to police reports, two 18-year-old suspects, Katlego Mokoena and Lungelo Sithole, allegedly broke into Lusanda’s residence. Upon encountering the suspects, Lusanda reportedly screamed, which led to one of the attackers stabbing her multiple times. The brutal act was heard by construction workers nearby, who immediately alerted Lusanda’s father. With the help of Public Order Policing officers, he rushed to the scene where the suspects were soon cornered and apprehended.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
It was later revealed that one of the suspects, Katlego Mokoena, was reportedly a former boyfriend of Lusanda. Tragically, despite paramedics’ efforts, Lusanda was declared dead at the scene.
The two suspects appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court and were remanded in custody. They are set to return on November 12, 2025, for their bail hearing. One of the suspects is reported to be a Grade 12 learner, who will now face his final exams while behind bars.
The entire Mattafin community is in mourning as they come to terms with the loss of Lusanda, a young life taken too soon. Local residents are calling for justice, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
May Lusanda’s soul rest in peace, and may justice be served.