My Brother’s Keeper actor Nkanyiso Mchunu has been arrested for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend, Masechaba Monnahela, in what is being described as a “brutal attack.”
According to police reports and court records, Mchunu allegedly hit Monnahela with both open hands and clenched fists. The actor appeared at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where he was released on R1 500 bail. He was also issued a stern warning, as the case was postponed for the disclosure of the docket.
But the saga doesn't end there. In a dramatic twist, Mchunu has launched a legal counterattack, opening charges of trespassing and malicious property damage against Monnahela — a move that has further complicated the legal battle.
However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has yet to place Mchunu’s counter case on the court roll, leaving its future uncertain.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the case. “The couple have opened counter charges against each other and have since appeared before the Randburg court. The National Prosecuting Authority will decide on the way forward,” she said.
Insiders suggest the relationship had long been unstable, riddled with jealousy, fights, and suspicions of infidelity. “It was a ticking time bomb,” said a source close to the couple. “There were always arguments and tension.”
Monnahela has spoken publicly about the alleged abuse.
In a previous interview with another publication, she described how the relationship began to unravel after a confrontation with one of Mchunu’s former partners.
“I went to his house and found the girl there. We had a quarrel, and that is when he first beat me,” Monnahela recalled. “On his birthday, he pushed me, and I fell to the floor. After that, he would occasionally slap me. I later discovered he was dating someone else from the new production of Ithonga. The girl is a second assistant director.”
The couple met in October 2023 at a mutual friend’s party and quickly became inseparable, often seen together at red carpet events and public functions. But beneath the glamorous façade, turmoil reportedly brewed.
With emotions running high and accusations flying from both sides, the case has attracted widespread media attention.
As the legal proceedings continue, many in the public are calling for accountability and transparency — and for justice to take its course
'My Brother’s Keeper' actor Nkanyiso Mchunu is accused of assaulting his girlfriend.
Image: Siyabonga Godfrey Dlamini