BRUTAL MURDER Gape stabbed for helping a friend who was mugged
Condolences pour in for stabbed Staywell reveller Murdered man, Gape, described as a kind and loving free spirit
Family and friends of Gape Thato Mannathoko are still reeling in shock following his untimely death this past weekend at Staywell Hotel in Mogoditshane, where he was brutally stabbed by four men when trying to help his friend who was mugged.
A circulating video on social media seemingly taken by by-standers depicts the grisly stabbing that occurred near the pool side of the hotel facilities. By the weekend, the matter was the topic everywhere, after the men apparently went into hiding. However, by Sunday evening, with the assistance of the video on social media, the accused were arrested.
The four accused men, aged between 28 and 36 of Mogoditshane and Thebephatswa, appeared briefly before the Broadhurst Magistrate Court on Monday where they were to be remanded in custody pending further investigations into the matter.
While his family could not be reached for comment, a close friend said those who knew him are gutted and still coming to terms with his barbaric death. “Gape did not deserve to die like that. He was a good person who was kind and loving, and would not hurt anyone. We have heard that his only wrong was trying to help his friend after some guys there stole some of his possessions including an expensive cellphone.”
Condolences have been pouring in thick and fast, for Mannathoko, who has been described by those close to him as a free spirit and happy soul, who enjoyed having fun and lived life to the fullest. In fact, in almost all his pictures, Mannathoko has a bright and happy smile, depicting
this joie de vivre nature that his loved ones will possibly miss. The 30 year-old IT graduate completed his studies at Botho College in 2016, and was said to be looking at growing in his career and soaring.
“He was passionate about education and living a good life. He had many dreams and it is unfortunate that such a promising life has been cut short in such an inhumane manner.”
Staywell is one of the “hottest” spots in the city, and in recent months, has earned a reputation as the ‘go to’ spot for fun lovers.
However, on several occasions, the hotel has been dogged by unpalatable claims of certain individuals who patron the hotel, as being involved in dodgy criminal dealings including drug peddling and muggings. While there have been some incidents here and there at the place, this is the first time the venue has recorded a murder, putting the hotel on the spotlight. When pressed for comment, the hotel
management made reference to a short statement they released, which expressed apology for the incident and noted that police would investigate the matter.
The event during which the incident occurred marked the prebirthday celebrations of popular socialite, social media comedian, Tik Tok star and MC, Theo Boma, who is popularly known as Hey Nyenaah. On Sunday, he released a video on social media, extending condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, and expressing sadness over the turn of events. “I am so sorry that something so horrible had to happen at my pre-birthday party,” he said in part. Hey Nyenaah is a brand ambassador of the hotel and hosts most of the events and parties held at the popular hotel.
Details of the burial of Mannathoko, who hails from Kanye, will be communicated by the family later this week.