DJ Maphorisa, real name Themba Sekowe is a free man after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) dropped charges of assault made by lover.

THE ASSAULT

The Ba Straata DJ was arrested in May after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend, DJ, and actress Thuli Phongolo, and he was released on R4 000 bail. According to the NPA, "It is alleged that on Sunday, 7 May 2023, the accused (Sekowe) assaulted his girlfriend, Thulisile Phongolo by hitting her with open hands and strangled her after she confronted him about an incident that happened the previous night where he was booked to perform. The complainant laid a charge with Sandton South African Police Service (SAPS), who acted promptly and arrested the accused." Since then, he has appeared in court four times. Thuli withdrew the case after his first appearance, but the NPA carried through with the case. Thuli filed a withdrawal statement and was before court to which she agreed for the accused to be released on bail. Maphorisa turned down the proposal to go for a diversion programme which includes an anger management course.

FREE

The case has been withdrawn after the fourth court appearance. NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane tells ZiMoja that the case was been withdrawn after Maphorisa's team lodged representations with the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, which were successful. Thuli and Maphorisa were unavailable for comment.