KwaZulu-Natal Premier condemns violence during Moonsamy family funeral.
Image: Supplied
Thamsanqa Ntuli, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, delivered an emotional address during the mass funeral of seven members of the Monswamy family, describing the killings as a devastating blow that has shaken the conscience of the province.
Speaking on Sunday at the funeral held at KwaDukuza Local Municipality, Ntuli conveyed condolences on behalf of the provincial government and residents, emphasising that the victims were more than statistics but a family whose lives were “violently and senselessly cut short.”
Ntuli strongly condemned the crimes of kidnapping, rape and murder, calling them an attack on humanity and the values underpinning South Africa’s democracy. He noted the painful irony that the killings occurred during Freedom Month, a time dedicated to promoting human rights and dignity.
The seven family members were robbed and killed after they were kidnapped from their house in Newtown, in Newark, on Tuesday night.
The victims have been identified as Allen Monswamy, 52, his wife Sandy, 57, their children Kraidon, 26, and Shamaria, 20, as well as relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, 51, Mooniamma Padayachee, 78, and Mariama Happanah, 83.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier condemns violence during Moonsamy family funeral.
Image: Supplied
The details emerged that the suspects had forced entry into the family home while the victims were asleep, demanding money and using a pillow to suffocate Allen before abducting the entire family in Allen's freshly repaired Ford Ranger. Despite ransacking their home, the attackers left most valuables untouched, stealing only Kraidon’s laptop and about R40,000 in cash.
Ntuli also praised the swift response by the South African Police Service, confirming that three suspects have been arrested.
Three suspects, aged 21, 26, and 28, appeared in the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Friday, while the search continues for the remaining two at large.
Police have recovered a stolen vehicle and secured critical evidence in the investigation. He said the arrests send a clear message that those responsible for violent crimes will be pursued and brought to justice.
Using the platform to address broader crime concerns, the Premier urged communities to become more actively involved in combating criminal activity. He called on residents to reject silence, isolate criminal elements and report wrongdoing. Ntuli added that the department has mobilised community members to sign petitions opposing bail for the accused, reflecting a united stance against the perpetrators.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier condemns violence during Moonsamy family funeral.
Image: Supplied
Highlighting that criminals thrive in environments of fear and division, Ntuli stressed the importance of unity in defeating lawlessness. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention through closer collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Community Safety and Liaison.
The premier concluded by assuring the grieving family that government will support them in their pursuit of justice and said the memory of the victims should serve as a catalyst for building safer and more resilient communities across the province.
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