Prophet Maphanga and friend die in car crash on the R37 outside Burgersfort

Residents in Tubatse are mourning the death of the well-known prophet, Zenzile Maphanga (41). Moruti Machatane, as he was affectionately known, died in a horrific accident on the R37 on August 9.

The accident occurred at about 04:30 next to the Gethlane turn-off at the Maroni Farms.

Maphanga was travelling in his Suzuki Ertiga, heading in Burgersfort’s direction from Lydenburg, when he lost control and crashed into a marula tree.

“He was travelling with a friend, Aubrey Malepe, who also died,” confirmed a relative and family spokesperson, Petrus K Natis.

The Emergency Medical Services verified it that when they arrived at the scene, they found a wrecked light motor vehicle smashed against a tree.

“We found the bodies of two males, partially hanging out of the vehicle.
“We assessed the men and found that they had already succumbed to numerous injuries,” said the EMS officials. “Nothing could be done for them, and they were declared dead,” said the official not authorised to talk to the media.

The Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, said they are investigating a case of culpable homicide. He said the exact cause of this incident will form part of the SAPS’s investigations.

He was described by his family and friends as a kind man who had saved many lives as a prophet.
“People from all over the country use to visit his house in Praktiseer for prayers and guidance,” said Natis.
Maphanga will be  buried at Praktiseer on August 19.