Manhunt launched after Chaos at Makhadzi’s performance! The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the launch of a manhunt following a chaotic incident at the Annual Fun Games and Music Festival in Makwassie, North West, on Friday.
The event, which was headlined by popular South African artist Makhadzi, descended into turmoil when the singer failed to appear on stage, leading to widespread violence and property damage.
The Chaos Unfolds
According to North West police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh, the festival, held at the Makwassie Stadium, was intended to be a celebration of music and culture, with Makhadzi as one of the main attractions. However, the mood quickly turned sour when the artist did not show up to perform as expected. The crowd, which had gathered in anticipation of her performance, became enraged and began to lash out in frustration.
“My reports suggest that attendees of the Annual Fun Games and Music Festival were unhappy when the lead singer did not pitch up and went on a rampage. The stage and other equipment were burnt down to an estimated value of close to R3 million,” said Colonel Myburgh.
The damage to the event infrastructure was extensive, with the stage and equipment set on fire. This destruction not only caused financial loss but also disrupted the festival, which was meant to be a family-friendly event. No injuries were reported, but the damage was significant, with the value of the loss estimated to be in the millions.
Watch:
Reports suggest that attendees of the Annual Fun Games and Music Festival were unhappy when the lead singer did not pitch up and went on a rampage. The stage and other equipment were burnt down to an estimated value of close to R3 million. https://t.co/z1zIPdqX1o #ArriveAlive… pic.twitter.com/HQQ38K7PNg
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) December 27, 2024
Manhunt and Investigations
In response to the violence, the SAPS has launched a manhunt for the individuals responsible for inciting the chaos and burning down the festival infrastructure. However, as of yet, no arrests have been made.
Colonel Myburgh issued a call for public assistance in the investigation, requesting anyone with information to contact the Station Commander of Makwassie, Captain Bereng Hlasa, or use the South African Police Service Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the MySAPS app.
Strange Allegations of Impersonation
The incident has raised several questions, particularly regarding Makhadzi’s absence from the event. While the artist herself has not yet commented publicly on the situation, rumors have begun to circulate that an impersonator may have performed in her place. A video surfaced online, suggesting that an individual, possibly not Makhadzi, took the stage in her stead, leading to widespread speculation among fans.
Some social media users have claimed that the crowd was misled by the festival organizers, who allegedly promised Makhadzi as the headliner but instead delivered a performer who was not the original artist. One user, @Thapz__, posted: “I’m not saying the violence was warranted but why bring out a Makhadzi from Temu? The organisers must take full responsibility.”
Community Outrage
The anger from the crowd was fueled by a sense of betrayal, with many attendees feeling deceived by the false advertising. Social media posts have criticized the festival organizers for not delivering on their promises. Another user, @Tsele_MK, said, “This happened somewhere in the North West. Allegedly, the promoter lied to the community by saying Makhadzi is going to perform. When she didn’t pitch, the crowd lost it and burned the stage. False advertising is wrong and dangerous.”
The situation has sparked debates on social media, with many fans questioning why the organizers did not ensure Makhadzi’s performance or provide a clear explanation for her absence. One user, @ApstDeza, expressed frustration over the situation: “Imagine people paid and traveled from all over the North West to see Makhadzi live only to be given a Makhadzi from Temu. The people burned down the stage and stoned the fake Makhadzi in retaliation, can we blame them? Makhadzi why didn’t you pitch in Makwassie?”
Public Safety Concerns and Accountability
While the public’s outrage is understandable, the violence that erupted at the festival has raised concerns about public safety and accountability. Experts have warned that false advertising and misleading event promotions can lead to unpredictable outcomes, especially when fans feel that their expectations have been shattered.
In the aftermath of the event, questions remain about whether the festival organizers will be held accountable for the damage and public safety risks caused by the incident. As the SAPS continues its investigation and the search for those responsible intensifies, the case has brought attention to the importance of transparency and clear communication when organizing public events.
Looking Ahead
As fans and attendees await further details, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of miscommunication and unfulfilled promises, particularly in the entertainment industry. With the police investigation ongoing, many are hoping for clarity regarding Makhadzi’s absence and the events that led to the destruction at the festival. The manhunt and the search for justice continue, with the community calling for answers and accountability.
The post Manhunt launched after Chaos at Makhadzi’s performance appeared first on News365.co.za.
Zim Instantly via Simplex Solutions