Durban — An induna was one of four people allegedly killed in KwaZulu-Natal over the weekend.
This was according to Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Sihle Zikalala who said details were sketchy and the circumstances surrounding the murders were unclear.
Zikalala called for urgent police action following the murder of the induna of Osuthu Traditional Council and three other people.
He said the institution of traditional leadership within the province continued to face several challenges.
“Yesterday (Saturday) we learnt of the shocking murder of Induna of Osuthu Traditional Council Mr Maphemba Ntuli together with three people,” Zikalala said.
“Circumstances surrounding these murders are unclear.”
Zikalala called for calm and for law-enforcement agencies to be given the space they need to investigate these murders and apprehend those responsible.
He recalled that last month, the chairperson of the same traditional council and Iso leSilo Dr Dumisani Khumalo was assassinated by gunmen after Umkhosi Womhlanga (reed dance).
“In this case, there have been no arrests, we call upon law-enforcement to do everything in their power to deal with the lawlessness that threatens to engulf our province and various sectors that form it,” Zikalala said.
“We express our condolences to the family of Induna Ntuli and the three people that were killed in this attack.”
Zikalala added that Ntuli served with diligence under isigodi Mhambume.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Nqobile Gwala said charges of murder were being investigated by Nongoma SAPS.
“It is alleged that yesterday (Saturday) the victims were erecting a tent. While at the community hall they were attacked by unknown suspects who fired multiple shots at them. The victims are aged between 25 and 63,” Gwala said.
“The circumstances surrounding their death are still being investigated.”
Daily News