Tebogo G Mashego's family addresses mental health concerns and requests privacy

The family of musician Tebogo G Mashego has released a statement addressing recent reports regarding his mental health. 

“We would be remiss if we did not start by thanking the public of South Africa, especially Tebogo’s fans, for the outpouring of support over the past week. Your concerns and messages of love have not gone unnoticed.” 

They also requested privacy to process the situation, stating, “As the family of Tebogo Mashego, we respectfully request time and privacy to process and come to terms with the recent incident involving our child. We ask that the public and media allow us space during this difficult period.” 

The family asked for prayers for Mashego and made clear that no further statements would be issued at this stage, adding, “Any updates will be formally communicated by the family at the appropriate time. We wish to emphasise that any information not released directly by us should be regarded as unauthoritative.” 

They also restricted visits, saying, “Furthermore, we request that no media, friends or colleagues attempt to visit Tebogo. Access will be limited to immediate family members only.”

The statement concluded with an appeal for understanding: “We trust this request will be met with compassion, respect and understanding.”

The statement comes after Mashego’s recent return to South Africa following a period of being stranded in Nigeria. 

According to reports, the “Biri Marung” hitmaker was stuck in Nigeria on September 19 after missing his flight with Ethiopian Airlines.

A video of a tearful Mashego circulated widely on social media, showing him expressing frustration and disappointment over missing his flight. He also used social media to call out those who encouraged him to travel to Nigeria for a singing engagement.

In several videos, a visibly distressed Mashego shared regret over his decision to travel.

He accused his team of mistreatment and claimed that several people owed him money for performances he had already completed. In one clip, he appealed for donations to cover the cost of a flight ticket, saying that his team had abandoned him and refused to pay him.

Reports about Mashego’s arrest emerged after popular blogger Musa Khawula shared a video on his X account, claiming: “Tebogo G Mashego has been arrested for slander and defamation of character after a three-day social media rant.”

The video showed Mashego being escorted into a police van, prompting concern among fans.

However, Crime Watch SA clarified the situation, stating: “Tebogo G Mashego has not been arrested. Information received indicates that he displayed abnormal behaviour and allegedly acted violently, assaulting people without apparent cause."

"Laudium SAPS members were summoned to the scene and, in the interest of public safety, had to remove him from the community as he was visibly resisting.”