Mapara A Jazz Return Home After Alleged Kidnapping and Assault in Ethiopia
Johannesburg – Tshwane-based musical duo Mapara A Jazz, comprised of Mano “Man Malaya” Nephawe and Leornard “Lenny” Malatji, have safely returned to South Africa following an alleged kidnapping ordeal in Ethiopia, during which Nephawe was reportedly severely beaten.
The pair, known for their infectious amapiano beats, had been booked to perform at the Ade Music Fest, held at the Kana Warehouse in Addis Ababa on 25 October.
The details surrounding the alleged incident remain murky, as the musicians have remained tight-lipped about their experience since arriving back in South Africa.
The drama unfolded on Sunday, 27 October, when the duo posted a desperate plea for help on social media, stating: “Can someone help us? We are kidnapped in Ethiopia.”
Hours later, they updated their fans with a brief message confirming their safe return home, but without providing any details of what had transpired.
“We’re finally home! We’re grateful to say that we are safely back home. We want to sincerely thank everyone who showed us love, concern, and support during this difficult time — from both Ethiopia and South Africa,” the post read.
Since their return, the musicians have remained unavailable for comment, leaving many to speculate about the nature of their alleged ordeal. The seemingly traumatic experience has prompted concern from fans and the broader South African music community.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has confirmed that the matter was not initially reported to the South African Embassy in Ethiopia. Clayson Monyela, South Africa’s Head of Public Diplomacy and DIRCO spokesperson, explained that the department became aware of the situation through social media posts.
“The matter was not reported to DIRCO. We were made aware of it on posts on social media. Then we jumped to try and make contact with the embassy. When we reached out, there was no case of a kidnapping that had been reported,” Monyela told Sunday World.
Monyela further explained that upon learning of the duo’s safe return to South Africa, the matter was referred to the South African Police Service (SAPS). “A few hours later, we were informed that the gentleman had arrived home in South Africa safely. Because they are home safe, the matter now becomes a SAPS matter and is not handled [by DIRCO].”
According to Monyela, the SAPS and legal authorities will now meet with the musicians to conduct an investigation, establish the facts of what occurred in Ethiopia, and determine whether a formal case will be opened.
“In a case where the artists were still held captive in Ethiopia, a case would be opened with the Embassy, and we would intervene. However, we are glad they returned home safely, and police will then handle the matter going forward,” Monyela stated.
The lack of detailed information from Mapara A Jazz themselves has fuelled speculation about the circumstances surrounding their alleged kidnapping and assault. It remains unclear whether the incident was related to their performance at the Ade Music Fest, or whether other factors were involved.
The SAPS investigation will likely focus on establishing the timeline of events, identifying any potential suspects, and gathering evidence to support the musicians' claims. The investigation may also involve collaboration with Ethiopian authorities to gather information about the alleged incident.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks faced by South African artists performing internationally, and the importance of reporting any incidents to the relevant authorities. The safety and well-being of South African citizens abroad remains a priority for DIRCO, and the department stands ready to provide assistance in cases where citizens are in distress.
As the SAPS investigation gets underway, the South African music community will be closely watching for further developments in this unfolding story. The hope is that Mapara A Jazz will be able to share their experience in due course, and that those responsible for the alleged kidnapping and assault will be brought to justice.
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