A controversial figure in the Gqom music scene, Babes Wodumo, formerly known as Bongekile Simelane, has recently been embroiled in a public dispute with Durban-based fashion designer Philly Mhlongo of Sk’Dee Designs. The altercation, captured on video, has sparked widespread attention.
The Allegations
In a video that circulated online, Babes Wodumo can be seen engaged in a heated exchange with Philly Mhlongo. Philly accuses Babes and her dancers, Smiso Zulu and Sanele Smallz, of failing to pay for garments they had borrowed for a performance at the IFP manifesto launch. Philly alleges that despite leaving a deposit, the dancers did not return the items as agreed upon.
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Clarifying the Situation
Babes Wodumo has stepped forward to address the accusations, asserting that this is not the first time she has been targeted by Philly. According to Babes, she approached Philly to confront the issue directly after seeing social media posts implicating her. She denies any personal involvement in the matter and maintains that her name was unjustly dragged into the dispute.
The Confrontation
Detailing her version of events, Babes recounts arriving at Philly’s studio accompanied by her father and a security guard. She claims that upon questioning Philly about the accusations, she was met with aggression and verbal abuse. Babes asserts that she was provoked into responding in kind, citing Philly’s alleged intoxicated state as a contributing factor to the altercation.
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Philly’s Perspective
Philly Mhlongo, on the other hand, maintains that Babes Wodumo arrived at her studio inebriated and initiated the confrontation. She alleges that Babes not only assaulted her but also made threats against her life. Philly emphasizes that she runs a business and expects respect from all parties involved.