Anonymous Source Alleges Manipulation in Constable Thapelo Mashego’s Relationship.
Mamelodi, September 15, 2025 – An anonymous tip sent to Mamelodi News has raised troubling claims about the personal life of the late Constable Thapelo Mashego, who died in a tragic murder-suicide during a 16-hour hostage standoff in Mamelodi East on September 9, 2025. The source alleges that Zandile, Mashego’s girlfriend, exerted significant control over him, contributing to the emotional turmoil that preceded the devastating events.
According to the anonymous sender, Zandile’s influence over Mashego was profound, despite his reputation as a strong yet compassionate individual. “Anyone who knew Thapelo’s girlfriend knows how much she controlled him,” the source wrote. “We would always ask how, because Thapelo had a strong yet kind character, but when it came to her, he would be like a child.”
The tip further claims that Zandile, along with her family, attempted to manipulate Mashego through traditional means, specifically mentioning the use of muthi (traditional medicine often associated with spiritual influence). The source alleges that Zandile’s mother filed a protection order against Mashego with false accusations of terrorizing her, purportedly to sabotage his attempts to move on with a new partner. “She even told him that her family was angry because he cheated on her and wanted to ‘make a plan’ for him,” the sender added, hinting at retaliatory intentions.
The anonymous message also references an affidavit filed at Mamelodi West Police Station, though Mamelodi News could not independently verify its existence or contents at this time. These allegations, while unconfirmed, add a layer of complexity to the already tragic narrative surrounding Mashego’s final days, which were marked by allegations of infidelity and a paternity dispute that reportedly triggered the hostage crisis.
The Mamelodi community remains shaken by the loss of Mashego and his 18-year-old nephew, Keitumetse, with many expressing grief and frustration over the underlying personal and familial conflicts. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has emphasized the availability of its Employee Health and Wellness program to support officers facing personal struggles, urging members to seek help through confidential channels.
Mamelodi News is committed to handling such sensitive allegations with care and encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward responsibly. For support or to report concerns, contact SAPS at 0800 222 111 or via the MySAPS app. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to seek clarity on this developing story.
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