The Tragic End of Given Mabusela: Controversy, Calls for Justice and Questions Unanswered - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

The Tragic End of Given Mabusela: Controversy, Calls for Justice and Questions Unanswered

3 mins read
police brutality injustice

Given Mabusela died in police custody in South Africa, and the official police report stated that he resisted cooperation and police had to use necessary force. However, his family and girlfriend have raised questions about the report, calling for justice and reform within law enforcement. An investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate is ongoing, and Mabusela’s story highlights the need for reform and accountability within law enforcement.

The Tragic End of Given Mabusela: Controversy, Calls for Justice and Questions Unanswered

In November 2020, Given Mabusela died while in police custody in South Africa. According to the police report, Mabusela “resisted cooperation” and police had to use “necessary force,” leading to a fatal head injury. However, Mabusela’s family and girlfriend have raised questions about the official account, calling for justice and reform within law enforcement. An investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate is ongoing.

The Arrest

In the wee hours of November 6th, a seemingly routine arrest would culminate in the tragic demise of 46-year-old Given Mabusela under the custody of the Table View police. It would be his final encounter with law enforcement, as by the end of the day, he was pronounced deceased in a South African police cell.

The events leading up to Mabusela’s untimely death are as controversial as they are tragic. An internal police document reveals that Mabusela was seized during a standard patrol just past midnight, alongside another individual found to be in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

During this initial encounter, Mabusela reportedly ‘resisted cooperation’, a detail included in the police report which would mark the beginning of a series of unfortunate events. The same report details that the police had to apply ‘necessary force’ to get Mabusela into the patrol vehicle. This forceful action led to an altercation at the police station, where Mabusela supposedly ‘assaulted’ the officers and refused to untie his shoelaces, resulting in a fatal head injury.

The Controversy

The report vaguely indicates Mabusela ‘experienced difficulty breathing’ but remains silent on the actual extent of his injuries or the seriousness of his medical state. Following a transfer from the police cell to the Du Noon Clinic, Mabusela was put on a ventilator and declared dead upon arrival.

This official account, however, has been met with skepticism. Mabusela’s half-sister, Tumelo Peete, portrays a system that not only failed Mabusela but subjected him to grave injustice. Her pleas to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) fell on deaf ears, leaving her to process the reality of her brother’s death alone while marshaling the resources necessary for his honorable send-off.

The shockwaves of the tragedy extend beyond Mabusela’s immediate family. Mabusela’s girlfriend, Zanele Nzamo, remembers the moment senior police officers broke the news of his passing to her. For Nzamo, Mabusela was more than just a partner – he was her provider, her closest confidant, her sibling.

A Call for Justice

The narrative is further complicated by the testimony of the man apprehended with Mabusela. During a visit by Nzamo at Pollsmoor prison, the co-accused claimed that Mabusela was ‘murdered in cold blood’. This narrative sharply contradicts the impartial, detached language of the police report, leading to questions about the nature and extent of the ‘necessary force’ deployed.

In response to these accusations, the spokesperson for the Western Cape SAPS, Captain Frederick van Wyk, pointed to the ongoing investigation spearheaded by the IPID. Though details remain scant, IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping remains confident that the investigation is in its final stages.

Given Mabusela’s story evokes a powerful blend of sorrow, fury, and exasperation. It serves as a glaring testament to potential power misuse within law enforcement and emphasizes the pressing need for reform and accountability. Amidst the grief and the lingering queries, Mabusela’s narrative demands justice and transformation, a call that should not be ignored.

How did Given Mabusela die?

Given Mabusela died while in police custody in South Africa. According to the police report, Mabusela “resisted cooperation” and police had to use “necessary force,” leading to a fatal head injury.

What kind of force did the police use on Given Mabusela?

The police report stated that they had to use “necessary force” on Mabusela to get him into the patrol vehicle, and he supposedly “assaulted” the officers and refused to untie his shoelaces, resulting in a fatal head injury.

What do Mabusela’s family and girlfriend think of the official police report?

Mabusela’s family and girlfriend have raised questions about the official police report, calling for justice and reform within law enforcement. They are skeptical of the report’s account and want more transparency and accountability.

What is the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID)?

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is an independent agency in South Africa responsible for investigating complaints against the police. They are currently investigating Mabusela’s death while in police custody.

What is the Western Cape SAPS?

The Western Cape SAPS is the South African Police Service responsible for law enforcement in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The spokesperson for the Western Cape SAPS, Captain Frederick van Wyk, has addressed accusations surrounding Mabusela’s death.

What is the significance of Given Mabusela’s story?

Given Mabusela’s story highlights the need for reform and accountability within law enforcement. His death while in police custody has raised questions about police brutality and the use of force, and his family and girlfriend are calling for justice and transparency in the investigation.

Previous Story

Rhulani Mokwena: The Mastermind Behind Mamelodi Sundowns

Next Story

The Delicate Balance of Career and Country in International Rugby

Latest from Blog

Clouds Above the Cape: South Africa’s Teen Vaping Crisis

Teen vaping is growing fast in South Africa, with many young people using flavored nicotine vapes that are easy to find and heavily advertised. A big study found that nearly one in six teens vape regularly, and many show signs of addiction, worrying health experts. Vaping has become part of teen life at schools and social spots, fueled by cool images online and wrong ideas that it’s safe. Now, South Africa faces a crucial moment to pass strong laws and teach kids the truth before this habit takes deeper hold. Without action, many teens risk lifelong health problems hidden behind the clouds of sweet vapor.

Reimagining the Strand Street Quarry: Cape Town’s Next Chapter

The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to transform from a quiet, forgotten space into a lively community hub full of sports, culture, and fun. This special place, rich with history and surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, will become a spot where people can play, celebrate, work, and connect. The city is listening closely to its residents to make sure the new space respects the past while welcoming the future. Together, Cape Town hopes to turn the old quarry into a bright, shared treasure for everyone.

Illuminations Across the Vines: The Spier Light Art Exhibition as a Living Canvas

The Spier Light Art Exhibition in Stellenbosch is a magical outdoor event that turns a quiet vineyard into a glowing playground of light and creativity. Artists from near and far use colorful lights to tell stories about history, community, and technology, inviting visitors to explore and interact with the shining artworks. As night falls, the farm transforms into a living canvas where light dances, sparks imagination, and connects people through shared wonder. This event is more than art—it’s a joyful celebration of light’s power to inspire and unite.

Cape Town’s New Dawn: Redefining Urban Justice Through “Invested in Hope”

Cape Town’s “Invested in Hope” budget puts nearly R40 billion toward building fairer, kinder neighborhoods by focusing on free basic services, support for pensioners, and job creation. This plan helps people who need it most, giving them water, electricity, and relief from property taxes. By investing in homes and jobs, the city is healing old wounds from apartheid and making sure everyone feels part of the community. Stories from residents like Nontombi and Zanele show how this hope turns into real, everyday changes. Cape Town’s bold steps offer a shining example of how cities can grow with fairness and care for all.

Running Cape Town: A Year of Marathons, Heritage, and Human Spirit

In 2025, Cape Town’s running events paint the city with energy, history, and community spirit. From the lively April Velocity HalfMarathon through scenic vineyards in May, to the meaningful Slave Route Challenge in June, each race tells a story. October’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon shines on the world stage, while November’s Great World Race brings runners from everywhere together. These races are more than just runs—they are vibrant celebrations of Cape Town’s beauty, heritage, and the strong human spirit that beats in the Mother City.