KEY POINTS
- KwaZulu-Natal police arrested two suspected hitmen linked to the murder of ANC councillor Phendukani Mabhida and the attempted murder of his sister, as well as the killing of a local induna.
- The suspects were found with illegal firearms during a routine patrol and are set to appear in court on multiple charges, including murder and possession of unlicensed weapons.
- Community leaders and officials have welcomed the arrests, calling for justice and increased measures to address political violence in the region.
KwaZulu-Natal police have made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the murder of ANC councillor Phendukani Mabhida, arresting two suspected hitmen on Thursday, just two days after the fatal shooting.
The incident occurred in Sundumbili, near Mandeni on the north coast, sending shockwaves through the community and raising concerns about political violence in the region.
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the arrests were made during a routine patrol by public order policing members.
The officers spotted two suspicious men and, acting on their instincts, stopped and searched them. “The vigilant police officers found the men in possession of two firearms with filed-off serial numbers. They were immediately arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms,” Netshiunda explained.
Further investigations by the political task team revealed a chilling connection: the two suspects were allegedly linked to the murder of Councillor Mabhida and the attempted murder of his sister.
Netshiunda detailed the events leading to the councillor’s death, stating that the suspects had arrived at Mabhida’s home and asked to see him. “When the councillor came out, the two opened fire. His sister bravely intervened but was also shot. Both victims were rushed to a local health facility, where Mabhida was declared dead on arrival. His sister is currently recovering from her injuries,” he said.
Community Relief as Suspects Linked to Multiple Crimes Face Justice
The arrests have brought a sense of relief to the Sundumbili community, which has been grappling with a spate of violent crimes. Netshiunda revealed that the suspects, aged 31 and 34, are also linked to the murder of an induna (traditional leader) who was shot dead in the same area on January 25. This connection has raised concerns about a possible pattern of targeted killings in the region.
The two suspects are set to appear in the Nyoni Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where they will face charges related to the murder of Councillor Mabhida, the attempted murder of his sister, and the possession of illegal firearms. The swift action by the police has been widely praised, with KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi commending the law enforcement officers for their diligence. “We are relieved that the suspects have been apprehended and trust that justice will be served. Our thoughts remain with the Mabhida family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time,” Buthelezi said.
Jabulani Mkhize, Mabhida’s cousin, also expressed gratitude for the arrests, stating that the family is hopeful for a thorough investigation and a fair trial. “We want to see those responsible held accountable for their actions. Phendukani was a dedicated leader, and his loss has left a void in our community,” Mkhize said.
