Timeline: Ndoyisile Sibindi (Zimbabwean TikToker in South Africa)
Before 2021
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Sibindi entered South Africa on a study visa.
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The visa expired (reportedly more than 5 years before May 2026, so by early 2021 at the latest).
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He stayed in South Africa after the visa expired.
2021 onward
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Started making TikTok videos about fashion, skincare, and lifestyle.
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Gained over 1.1 million followers.
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Worked with brands without mentioning his immigration status.
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Faced early criticism for comments about healthcare access in South African hospitals.
January 2025
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Made remarks seen as “classist” about people from Tembisa crowding a mall. This would later resurface.
Early May 2026 (around May 7–10)
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Auditioned for SABC3’s revived Top Billing presenter search.
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His audition video went viral.
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Received both praise and criticism—many said the job should go to a South African.
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His past Tembisa comments resurfaced, increasing the backlash.
Sunday, May 10, 2026
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Public scrutiny intensified.
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South Africans questioned his legal status, started an online “manhunt,” and called on Home Affairs to verify his residency.
Thursday, May 14, 2026
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Unverified reports claimed he was arrested by Home Affairs.
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Social media said he was tracked via insults, held in police custody, had an expired visa (5+ years), and would be deported.
Thursday–Friday, May 14–15, 2026
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No official confirmation from Home Affairs or police.
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Sibindi responded on Instagram Stories, calling the reports “Journalism is dead.”
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He shared a video with his pet to show he was free, and noted he gained over 12,000 followers from the Top Billing buzz.
Conclusion (as of mid-May 2026)
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The arrest appears to be a rumor or exaggerated social media claim, fueled by anti-immigration sentiment and backlash over his audition.
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Sibindi remains active online; no deportation has been confirmed.
