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RIP Pastry Princess: Popular chef’s boyfriend in court for her murder
The body of celebrity chef Thembekile Letlape, known as ‘Pastry Princess’, was found by her father, Dr Kgosi Letlape, at her partner’s house.
The family of chef Thembekile Charlotte Letlape – popularly known as “Pastry Princess” – is mourning her passing after she was found dead at her boyfriend’s home on Thursday, 30 May.
CHEF THEMBEKILE ‘PASTRY PRINCESS’ LETLAPE’S BOYFRIEND ACCUSED OF HER MURDER
According to Kaya News, chef Letlape’s father Dr Kgosi Letlape found her lifeless body at her boyfriend Sibusiso Zitha’s home in Fourways, Johannesburg.
It is reported that her father, who is a former South African Medical Association Chairperson, went looking for her after she sent her mother a concerning text message.
Zitha, who is 40 years old, made his first appearance at the Randburg Magistrates Court on Monday, 3 June. Two of his co-accused, a man and woman, were arrested on Sunday.
Zitha is said to have handed himself in for the chef’s murder after allegedly spending days on the run. According to reports, after allegedly killing his girlfriend, he called his ex-wife to help him clean up. Thereafter, she reportedly informed the police.
FAMILY STATEMENT
The celebrity chef, who was 38 years old, was the founder of The Pastry Princess – a bespoke patisserie that specialises in wedding and speciality cakes, desserts, high tea, confectionaries and pastries.
Letlape’s family confirmed her passing in a statement last week.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Thembekile Charlotte Mabel Letlape, who departed this life on the 30th of May 2024.
“The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring love and support during this difficult time,” read the family statement.
MEMORIAL AND FUNERAL SERVICE DETAILS
On Sunday, the Letlape family held a prayer session and will hold one daily at 18:00 until Thursday at the family home.
Chef Letlape’s life will be honoured in a memorial service that will be held on Wednesday, 5 June, at Kingsmead College in Rosebank at 17:00
Her funeral service will take place at the Bryanston Methodist Church on Friday, 7 June, at 9:00.
“Should you wish to attend both the memorial and funeral service virtually, a link will be distributed beforehand.
“We have created a platform dedicated to providing updates for the week leading up to Thembi Letlape’s funeral. It also serves as a place for anyone to share their condolences with Thembi’s family and friends,” read another announcement on Tuesday.