MPUMALANGA, SOUTH AFRICA – Authorities have intensified their search for Prince Gift Mdluli, a suspect linked to the murder of a Mpumalanga police officer. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, strongly believes Mdluli may be hiding in KwaZulu-Natal.
Nationwide Search for Mdluli
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement has widened its search and issued a warrant of arrest for Mdluli.Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi stated that authorities last saw the suspect in Bergville, Howick, and Umzimkhulu.
“The warrant of arrest has been issued against Mdluli. Based on the latest information, Mdluli was last seen in Bergville, Howick, and Umzimkhulu in KZN,” Nkosi stated.
Mdluli was last seen in Bergville, Howick, and Umzimkhulu in KZN,”Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi.
Murder of Lieutenant Colonel Piet Pretorius
According to IOL, Mdluli is a key suspect in the killing of Lieutenant Colonel Piet Pretorius, 59. Notably, Pretorius was shot and killed on January 16. Furthermore, he served as the commander of the Vehicle Identification Unit in Ermelo. As a result, police describe his death as a targeted attack.
Arrests and Court Proceedings
Meanwhile, police have already arrested five suspects in connection with Pretorius’ murder, including a former police officer. The suspects, identified as Mthobisi Nkosi, Aubrey Xaba, Skhumbuzo Skhakhane, Nyiko Mujovo, and Valencia Skhosana, recently appeared in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court.
As the legal process unfolds, four of the accused have abandoned their bail application and remain in custody. The court scheduled their next hearing for April 10. Meanwhile, Skhosana proceeded with her bail application, which will continue on February 27.
Hawks Urge Public Cooperation
In an effort to expedite the arrest, authorities are urging anyone with information on Mdluli’s whereabouts to come forward. The Hawks remain determined to ensure that all individuals involved in Pretorius’ murder face justice.
As investigations continue, police are working tirelessly to uncover the motive behind what Prince Gift Mduli did. Law enforcement remains focused on holding every suspect accountable in this high-profile case.
Ultimately, the Mpumalanga officer’s murder underscores the increasing dangers that law enforcement officers face. The Hawks reaffirm their commitment to apprehending those responsible and prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law.
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