In a shocking incident in Machibini, Mandeni, a KwaZulu-Natal man, Nkululeko Zulu, 44, faced heartbreak after uncovering the KZN doll funeral deception. Initially, Zulu believed his ex-girlfriend, Diyana Maluleke, also 44, was pregnant with his child.
However, she informed him she had given birth in Durban but soon after claimed the baby had died. Consequently, Zulu, devastated, arranged a funeral, covering costs for transport, food, and a grave near his family plot.
A Doll in the Coffin
On 2 August 2025, Maluleke arrived late with a small coffin. As the burial proceeded, Zulu’s elder brother insisted on opening the coffin for a traditional farewell, a common custom. To everyone’s shock, they found a doll wrapped in baby clothes instead of a deceased infant. Therefore, the KZN doll funeral deception left mourners stunned, and Maluleke reportedly fled the scene.
Financial and Emotional Toll
For months, Zulu had supported Maluleke financially throughout the alleged pregnancy. Moreover, he funded the funeral, including transport from Durban to Mandeni and food for mourners. Community members also helped dig the grave.
Yet, the revelation of the KZN doll funeral deception led to Zulu facing a summons from local traditional authorities to apologise for the unused grave, adding to his distress. As a result, he is now seeking counseling to cope with the betrayal.
Community Outrage and Unanswered Questions
The incident has sparked outrage in the Mandeni community, raising questions about trust and financial exploitation. Currently, no independent confirmation of the pregnancy or the baby’s death exists, and all claims remain allegations.
Meanwhile, Zulu seeks clarity on Maluleke’s actions and potential recourse. Thus, the KZN doll funeral deception highlights the need for transparency in sensitive cultural practices.
Moving Forward
As the community grapples with this deception, Zulu’s story underscores the emotional and financial impact of such betrayals. Nevertheless, authorities have not commented on potential investigations, and Maluleke’s whereabouts remain unknown. Ultimately, this incident serves as a cautionary tale about verifying claims in matters of life and death.
