10/11/2025
South African reggae legend Lucky Dube died tragically on October 18, 2007, in what was later confirmed to be a botched carjacking in the Johannesburg suburb of Rosettenville. Here’s the true story of how it happened:
⚫ What Happened
On that evening, Lucky Dube had just dropped off two of his children at a relative’s house. He was driving his Chrysler 300C, a stylish sedan that caught the attention of a group of armed carjackers.
As he was about to drive away, three armed men approached his vehicle. They believed he was a foreign national (specifically a Nigerian man) and targeted his car.
When Dube tried to drive off, the assailants opened fire, hitting him in the upper body. His car continued to roll forward and eventually crashed into a nearby tree.
His children, who were still close by, witnessed the horrifying incident.
⚖️ Aftermath and Investigation
The murder sparked widespread shock and outrage in South Africa and across the world. Police immediately launched a major investigation.
Within days, five suspects were arrested. After a lengthy trial, three men — Malesela Mofokeng, Julius Gxowa, and Herman Ngubeni — were convicted of murder, carjacking, and possession of an unlicensed firearm.
They were all sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009.
🌍 Impact and Legacy
Lucky Dube’s death was not just the loss of a musician — it was a national tragedy.
He was one of Africa’s most successful reggae artists, known for songs like “Prisoner,” “Remember Me,” “House of Exile,” and “Together as One.”
His music often spoke against apartheid, racism, and social injustice. Ironically, he spent his career preaching peace and unity — and yet, his life was taken by violence.
🕊️ In Summary
Date of death: October 18, 2007
Cause: Shot during an attempted carjacking
Location: Rosettenville, Johannesburg, South Africa
Convicted killers: 3 men sentenced to life in prison
Legacy: Africa’s most iconic reggae voice, remembered for his message of peace and equality