A somber atmosphere enveloped the community of Mamelodi East on Saturday, 28 June 2025, as friends, family, and community members came together to bid farewell to 19-year-old Lethabo Mokonyane Matula, who was tragically killed in a violent stabbing outside his school. The funeral service was held at his family home in Extension 11, Mamelodi East, and he was later laid to rest at Heatherly Cemetery.
Lethabo’s untimely death occurred on Tuesday, 17 June, just after he completed writing his final exam at Lesedi Secondary School in the Lethabong informal settlement. He was ambushed and fatally stabbed in an incident that has left the community reeling with shock and grief.
His older brother, Peter Mthombeni, shared the family’s heartbreak and called for justice. “We want the law to play its role. We are expecting a life sentence for those who killed Lethabo,” he said, holding back tears. Mthombeni described his younger brother as a bright, disciplined, and God-fearing young man with a promising future.
Friends and classmates also paid tribute, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss. Amogelang Mokgoba, one of Lethabo’s close friends, described him as full of life and humor. “We are still traumatised. I think it’s the last time I will see him. He was a good friend,” she said. “I wasn’t ready to come to the funeral, thinking I would never see my friend again. It tears me apart. I hope he gets justice. We have to be strong. I will always remember his jokes, smile, and energy.”
Oratile Mogotlane (15), a fellow pupil at Lesedi Secondary School, remembered Lethabo’s passion for mathematics and business studies. She said many learners were still shaken by the tragedy, and the loss had cast a shadow over the school.
Lesedi Secondary School principal Simon Mojapelo also addressed mourners during the service. He acknowledged the school’s repeated concerns about safety in the areas surrounding the premises. “We made a call, we cried out loud to try and ask for help. I’m not here to point fingers because an incident like this can happen anywhere,” he said. “But the death of this child should be a wake-up call, not only for our school but for the entire community.”
He emphasized that the incident occurred outside school grounds — a reality that underscores the need for increased security around educational institutions, especially those in vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, Gauteng police have opened a case of murder and are continuing investigations. Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the case and said that officers are working to track down the perpetrators.
As the community mourns the loss of a young life full of potential, many are left asking when the violence that plagues South African schools and communities will come to an end. For now, Lethabo’s loved ones cling to memories and call for justice — hoping his death won’t be in vain.
