By: Natasha Archary

The family of “Pastry Princess” Thembekile Letlape is mourning her tragic and untimely death after her lifeless body was found in the home of her boyfriend on Thursday, 30 May.
Thembekile, a talented celebrity chef, made a name for herself after getting retrenched in 2014 from her job as an investment banker which led her to enroll for a diploma in food preparation and cooking.
Specialising in patisserie, or sweet delicacies, the 38-year old opened her own bespoke baking business, The Pastry Princess, making a household name for herself.
Her bright future was cut short, allegedly by her boyfriend Sibusiso Zitha who has been charged with her murder.
This after Thembekile’s father, Dr Kgosi Letlape found her lifeless body at Zitha’s Fourways home.
Dr Letlape, the former South African Medical Association Chairperson went to check on his daughter after she had sent her mother a distressing text message, as reported by News24.
Zitha, made his first appearance at the Randburg Magistrates Court on Monday, 03 June after reportedly spending days on the run.
The 40-year old eventually handed himself over to police in Etwatwa, a township in Benoni, on Saturday, 01 June.
According to News24, two others, a man and woman were also arrested on Sunday in connection with the case.
Thembekile’s family confirmed her passing in a statement and funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.
“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.
Details regarding the funeral arrangements will be provided upon confirmation. Your support and understanding during this difficult time are greatly appreciated.”



