In a dramatic turn of events, Matthew Lani, the TikTok personality who gained fame by impersonating a doctor, is now reportedly homeless.
His situation has worsened since being exposed, and he’s currently without a car and stable housing.
Moving Back in With His Mother
After losing everything earlier this year, Lani revealed in an interview with Sunday World that he moved in with his mother in March.
He explained that his mother had been working as a caretaker at a building in Windsor East, Johannesburg.
“Since January 2024, my mother has resided and worked at a building as a caretaker,” Lani said.
“So, after losing my apartment, car, and everything else because of the Dr. Matthew situation, I moved in with her in March.”
However, this arrangement didn’t last long.
His mother received an eviction notice from the property owner, forcing both of them out of the building in July.
The Rise and Fall of Matthew Lani
Lani rose to social media fame by giving medical advice and advocating for HIV awareness under the guise of being a legitimate doctor.
His online persona, “Dr. Matthew Lani,” attracted a large following before the truth about his fraudulent claims came to light.
The Sowetan reported in October 2023 that the real Dr. Sanele Zingelwa, whose identity Lani allegedly stole, broke his silence.
Zingelwa, an intern at Tembisa Hospital, spoke out about the toll this saga has taken on him and his family.
“I must put it on record that I do not know the so-called ‘Dr. Matthew Lani.’
His actions have put a huge amount of strain on not only myself but also on my family,” Zingelwa said in a statement issued through his employer.
Legal Action and Consequences
Zingelwa has since filed a case of identity fraud with the South African Police Service, hoping that justice will be served. ”
I have opened a case with the SAPS, and I hope the bogus doctor will be brought to justice.
I urge the justice system to work swiftly to conclude this matter,” he added.
As Lani faces homelessness and legal trouble, his once-promising online career appears to be in freefall.
It remains to be seen what consequences he will face for his actions.
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