Burglars broke into the home of South African peace icon Desmond Tutu as he was in Soweto to speak at Nelson Mandela's memorial.

It was reportedly the second time in three months the former Archbishop has been targeted by thieves. His home was burgled in August as he and his wife slept inside. The burglars took a number of small possessions, though both were unhurt.

"I can confirm that there was a burglary last night," Tutu aide Roger Friedman said.

A statement from the South African Police Service said the robbery of Tutu's home in Cape Town happened on Tuesday evening.

"At this stage, we cannot give further details, as the investigation into the matter is still ongoing," the statement said.

"No arrests have been made as yet".

The social-rights activist (82) was attending the memorial ceremony at the FNB Stadium to honour Mr. Mandela.

Police did not disclose what items were stolen.