Late Kwaito legend Mapaputsi’s estranged wife has hired Nhlanhla Lux and demanded her husband’s body from his children.
Estranged Wife Demands Mapaputsi’s Body From His Children
Nitty Nhlapo, who left Mapaputsi, born Sandile Ngwenya two years ago, pressured his children—his 29-year-old daughter and 19-year-old son—into changing funeral parlours, despite all arrangements already being made by the family.
Mapaputsi died on September 5 in Durban following a prolonged illness. His body was set to be transported to Johannesburg for burial at his Soweto home, but family tensions have complicated these plans. Reports claim that a staggering R50,000 is required to move his body to Johannesburg, with some allegations suggesting a friend is holding the body “hostage” for ransom.
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The dispute intensified when Nitty and Nhlanhla Lux allegedly demanded the family switch funeral parlours. According to a family friend who spoke to ZiMoja, Mapaputsi’s body was initially collected by GS Funerals from Pinetown, Durban. However, the family decided to cancel the services after discovering the body placed on the floor at a poorly managed parlour.
GS Funerals was then called in to take over, but the situation escalated when Nhlanhla Lux reportedly threatened the company, insisting they couldn’t handle the service.
“Nhlanhla Lux came with some affiliates and the spouse (Nitty) and said we needed to change the funeral parlour to go with Vuyo’s because GS didn’t have any experience. We are not sure why they want to change, but all arrangements were made with GS. They told us that we needed to use Vuyo’s or else we would owe about R100k, and Vuyo’s will be covering all the costs.”
Funeral Parlour Concedes
Following the pressure, GS Funerals pulled out, releasing a statement that it would no longer manage the funeral service.
“We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition following the preparations we have made, and we will coordinate closely with the affiliated service provider to maintain the dignity of the deceased and grieving family during this process,” GS said.
When approached for comment, Nitty confirmed they were now using Vuyo’s Funeral Parlour but declined to give further details. Mapaputsi’s children and Nhlanhla Lux have remained silent.