What was meant to be a joyous day of lobola negotiations turned into a nightmare for a KwaDumbuza family when armed robbers struck. On Sunday, February 2, as the groom’s family arrived to begin the formal discussions, two unknown suspects entered the house, held up the negotiators, and stole R35,000 intended for the lobola payment.
The robbery unfolded as Makoti’s mother, Busisiwe Ndaba, was greeting the in-laws. “It was the worst day of my life. We were filled with happiness, but everything turned to tears in an instant,” she recalled. The armed men demanded money from the chief negotiator, taking what they could before asking for more from another negotiator. After securing the cash, they shockingly said “Amen” and fled the scene on foot.
The family was left in shock and disarray, unsure of how to move forward after such a traumatic event. Busisiwe shared that her daughter is deeply affected, and she’s shaken by the robbery, which has left them all uncertain about the next steps for the negotiations. “Each time I think about this, I start shaking,” she said.
Culture expert Jabulani Maphalala suggested that, despite the robbery, the negotiations must continue. He recommended reducing the number of negotiators and finding a safer location with security for future discussions. “The groom cannot bring the same amount that was taken, but negotiations must proceed,” Maphalala explained. Police are investigating the robbery, with Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirming that the Plessislaer police are handling the case.
