KZN sees ‘significant’ drop in political killings: Cele
Updated | By Nushera Soodyal
Police Minister Bheki Cele says they've seen a significant decline in political killings in KwaZulu-Natal since the ministerial task team began its work.
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Cele briefed the media in Durban on behalf of the inter-ministerial committee on Wednesday.
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Since the task team's formation in 2018, there've been more than 251 arrests.
"Forty-six accused have been found guilty of which 30 were convicted for murder. Out of 34 murder cases, nine life sentences were handed down. Twenty-two accused have had 10 to 50 years imposed on them."
Cele briefed the media in During on behalf of the inter-ministerial committee.
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He says 16 police officers - linked to political killings - were also nabbed.
"While Covid-19 has been an impediment on the work of the Task Team, we are happy to announce that there has been significant movement in the following cases, despite Covid-19 challenges.
"The murder case of Qashana Mchunu, a former ANC ward councilor, will get underway in court on the 26th of July 2021. Seven suspects have been arrested, one suspect has been charged with his murder and four of the suspects will face charges of conspiracy to commit murder.
"The murder case of former ANC Youth League secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa will also commence on the 19th of July 2021.”
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