South African singer Naledi Aphiwe has found herself at the center of a social media storm after claiming her pink iPhone 16 was stolen at Sandton City during rapper Big Zulu’s album listening session. Taking to TikTok to air her frustrations, Naledi shared the story with her followers, sparking widespread speculation and intense backlash.
In her video, Naledi recounted the events that led to the disappearance of her phone, claiming the theft occurred in the bathroom of the venue.
“I don’t clearly remember if I put it in my pocket or put it down while washing my hands. A celebrity entered the toilets and came next to me. I’m not sure if she took it out of my pocket or took it from where I placed it,” she explained.
Naledi Aphiwe
She went on to say the alleged celebrity left the event immediately afterward and did not return. Upon tracking the phone, it reportedly showed a location in Alexandra, just minutes away from the event.
“When we tracked the phone, it said seven minutes ago it was at Alexandra. We tried going there, but at the police station, they wanted too many things. That means I bought a celebrity an iPhone 16,” Naledi said in frustration.
Fifi Cooper Responds: “You’re a Liar”
Following Naledi’s claims, speculation erupted online, with many TikTok users pointing fingers at rapper Fifi Cooper as the alleged thief. However, Fifi didn’t take the accusations lightly. In a fiery response, she took to her own platforms to deny the allegations and slam Naledi for defamation.
“You’re a liar and you’re young. I don’t know how you feel knowing there’s no truth in everything you’re saying about me,” said Fifi. “I’ve been in the industry for more than 18 years. You’re not going to accuse me of something you don’t have proof of.”
Fifi Cooper
Fifi expressed disappointment that her name was being “dragged through the mud,” and questioned Naledi’s motives.
“So many people were using that bathroom. Because I went in the bathroom and you were also there doesn’t mean I stole your phone. Is it because you know that when you post and mention my name, people will pay attention?”
Fifi Cooper
She also claimed she never left the venue early, contradicting Naledi’s claim.
“After I left the bathroom, I went back to the venue. I never left, by the way. I was one of the last people to leave.”
Seemah Speaks Out
Popular TikTok influencer Seemah was also briefly accused by online users due to her presence at the event. However, she quickly took to her own TikTok to clear her name.
“Naledi, tell us who stole your phone,” Seemah said, asking the singer to be direct instead of allowing people to speculate.
Seemah urged Naledi to name the alleged celebrity rather than leave the public guessing, which only caused unnecessary drama and confusion.
Naledi Moves On
While the identity of the alleged thief remains unconfirmed, Naledi has since confirmed that she replaced the stolen phone with a new pink iPhone 16. However, her initial claims continue to spark debate across social media, with users divided over whether the accusation was legitimate or a cry for attention.
The incident highlights the challenges of navigating celebrity culture in the digital age, where a single accusation can lead to public scrutiny and damage reputations. As of now, no official police statement or investigation update has been shared regarding the alleged theft.