Molimisi Baaitsi, the 31-year-old Lekompo sensation known to fans as Dr Nel, was discovered dead on a rural road in Botshabelo Village early Sunday, just hours after headlining the grand opening of a local pub, police said.
Limpopo provincial police opened a culpable homicide docket after the artist’s body was found face-down along Ga-Seleka, Phetogo Drive, at approximately 4 a.m. on 2 November 2025. Emergency medical personnel from Witpoort pronounced him dead at the scene.
“Preliminary information indicates the deceased had performed at the venue earlier that morning,” Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, provincial police spokesman, said in a statement. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
Dr Nel, born in the Waterberg District, burst onto South Africa’s regional music scene with infectious Lekompo tracks including “Tshwara Fase” and “Leoto La Mpete.” His high-energy live shows and collaborations with local producers had earned him a devoted following in Limpopo’s townships and beyond.
Tributes poured in across social media, with fans describing the artist as “the heartbeat of Lekompo” and a mentor to emerging talent. The Tom Burke police have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Lesiba Tsebe at 071 466 6558, the Crime Stop hotline 08600 10111, or the MySAPS app.
The investigation continues.