Family Seeks Justice After Aspiring Bacardi Artist Found Dead in Soshanguve
A family in Soshanguve, Tshwane, is searching for answers after the body of a 20-year-old aspiring Bacardi musician was discovered inside a dustbin, just weeks before she was due to celebrate her birthday.
The tragic incident occurred in Extension 2, Soshanguve, on 16 June 2026. The victim, identified as Palesa Koketso Tsotetsi from Extension 4, was described by relatives as a young woman with a passion for music and big dreams for her future.
According to family members, Palesa had left home to collect money that was allegedly owed to her by clients in the community. However, she never returned home, sparking concern among her loved ones.
Her uncle, Setjhaba Tsotetsi, said the family remains devastated and confused about the circumstances surrounding her death. He questioned how Palesa’s body ended up inside a dustbin and why no one noticed what was inside.
“We don’t understand how Palesa ended up inside a dustbin,” he said. “Why was our child dumped in a dustbin?”
According to the family, community members reported seeing a man pushing a dustbin late at night before he allegedly ran away. It is believed that three other men later moved the same dustbin, possibly unaware of what was inside.
The discovery has left relatives with many unanswered questions. Family members said Palesa’s body was reportedly covered with a pillow when she was found.
Palesa’s mother, Lebohang, described her daughter as a cheerful young woman who was excited about her future and eagerly planning her upcoming birthday celebration. The family had been looking forward to marking the occasion together.
According to her mother, Palesa had already begun discussing arrangements for the event and wanted a simple but memorable celebration. Rather than an expensive gathering, she had hoped to host a community party with family and friends.
Her mother said Palesa even had a special birthday cake in mind. As an aspiring musician, she wanted a cake shaped like a microphone to reflect her love for music and her ambitions within the Bacardi music scene.
The young artist was reportedly collaborating with local musicians, including DJ Spencer, also known as Bumblebee, and Zela Force. Family members said music was one of the most important parts of her life, and she was determined to build a career in the industry.
Those who knew Palesa described her as ambitious, friendly, and passionate about her craft. Her death has sent shockwaves through the local community, where many had watched her pursue her musical dreams.
According to information provided by the family, Palesa was found wearing grey track pants, black socks, and a black wool jersey. A red doek was reportedly covering her head.
Relatives said there were no obvious visible injuries on her body, although bleeding from the nose was observed. The exact cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed.
Authorities are expected to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. At this stage, the motive behind Palesa’s death remains unknown.
The family is now calling for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be brought to justice. They hope that answers will emerge as police continue their inquiries.
The case has drawn attention across Soshanguve and beyond, with community members expressing sympathy for the family and calling for greater efforts to combat violent crime.
For Palesa’s loved ones, the pain is made even more difficult by the fact that she was looking forward to celebrating another year of life. Instead of preparing for a birthday party, the family now finds itself mourning the loss of a young woman whose future was filled with promise.
As investigations continue, relatives say they remain determined to seek justice and preserve the memory of a daughter, niece, friend, and aspiring artist whose life ended far too soon.