A well-known football academy owner was brutally killed, allegedly by a taxi boss, following a dispute over a muthi bag in one of the popular festive tournaments at Ga-Dikgale, Limpopo, on Christmas Day.
The deceased has been identified as Kwena “Katiba” Mabotja, owner of the Survivors FC Academy, based in Turfloop Unit D, outside Polokwane.
The 29-year-old also served as part of the technical team of SAFA Limpopo ABC Motsepe League side Eleven Fast Tigers.
FARPost has gathered that an argument ensued when the deceased placed a bag, purportedly carrying muthi, at a goal post during the Mamathipa Soccer Challenge.
WHAT TRANSPIRED DURING THE FESTIVE TOURNAMENT IN GA-DIKGALE LIMPOPO?
On the day, Mabotja was helping a club called Mankga Junior Chiefs FC, who were playing against Juventus FC, owned and coached by the taxi boss.
According to a police preliminary report, the argument escalated when the taxi owner drove his minibus into the goal posts, intending to remove the bag. The deceased reportedly approached the taxi driver and pleaded with him to return his bag. However, the driver allegedly refused and drove off.
Mabotja then attempted to block the vehicle by standing in its path. During the process, he reportedly fell to the ground and was knocked down and dragged by the taxi until it stopped on the R81 road.
As a result, Mabotja sustained serious injuries and was initially taken to a local clinic for medical treatment. He was later transferred to Mankweng Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
TAXI OWNER ARRESTED FOR THE MURDER OF AN ACADEMY OWNER
Police in Limpopo have since registered a case of murder, and the 37-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the incident. He is expected to appear before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 December 2025, on a charge of murder.
Meanwhile, tournament organiser Kenny Mamabolo says they intend to meet with the family of the deceased soon. Mamabolo says they have also beefed up security at their tournament to avoid similar events.
“We are sympathising with the family, and we will be meeting with them soon,” Mamabolo told FARPost. “We have strengthened our marshals who are always on the lookout when the teams are playing.”
Mamabolo has also confirmed that the tournament will conclude on Saturday, 27 December 2025. Mamelodi Sundowns legends are expected to take on their Orlando Pirates counterparts in an exhibition match.
Manchester United academy coach Michael Fogarty is also attending the tournament, where he recently held coaching clinics.
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