The killing of a 16-year-old boy in Khayelitsha has sent shockwaves through the community, as locals believe the attack may have been motivated by homophobia. 

The teenager was killed in the early hours of Thursday morning in BT-Block, Site C. Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said officers responded to the scene shortly after midnight, when the officers found the victim with multiple stab wounds. 

“The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation,” said Twigg. 

Days after the police registered a murder case, a teenage suspect was taken into custody.  

“A 17-year-old male was arrested in connection with the on Sunday, 07 December 2025.”

Twigg said the suspect appeared in the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ Court on Monday. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabalazilia confirmed that the accused, described as “a child in conflict with the law”, appeared on a charge of murder. The case was postponed until 10 December for a bail application and placement of the young suspect in a place of safety.  

“The State will oppose the release of the child in conflict with the law,” said Ntabazalila.  

While police have not officially confirmed a motive, local LGBTQ+ organisation, Khulani Khayelitsha Queer Hub, believe that the teenager was targeted because “he was gay”.

The incident sparked outrage and renewed concern about the violence faced by queer youth in township communities, with people gathering outside the court on Monday, demanding justice for the slain teen, identified as Kwakhanya Mhanganisi.  

“The victim was killed during an altercation with two acquaintances. We urge the public to allow the investigation to determine the true motive and not to fuel unnecessary fear in the community,” said Western Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Andre Traut.

Police further noted that a second suspect was being sought, and have urged anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward. 

*This article has been updated to include a comment by Western Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Andre Traut.