‘Mastermind’ behind Umngeni cllr murder in court
The Democratic Alliance in KZN says it's now placing its trust in the SAPS and the NPA to ensure a watertight case in the murder of its uMngeni Chief Whip, Nhlalayenza Ndlovu.
Councillor Ndlovu was gunned down in front of his family in December 2023.
The party has welcomed the arrest of the alleged mastermind - who was taken into custody on Friday.
He appeared in the Howick Magistrate’s Court on Monday, and was remanded in custody.
He is expected to appear again on Friday alongside his co-accused who was arrested last year.
" Our forensic team, which we appointed, have for some time tried to engage with the South African Police Services because they had evidence that the suspect was in fact fingered in the murder," says KZN DA leader Francois Rodgers.
"So we welcome it. We just hope at this stage that the South African Police Services have done their, their necessary investigatory work and handed it over to the, the prosecuting authority because this matter's been dragging on for almost a year and a half."
READ: AfriForum to lead Nhlalayenza Ndlovu murder probe
KZN Cogta spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila has hailed the arrest is a crucial breakthrough.
"The MEC further emphasised that this development reaffirms the gravity with which all state agencies regard the murder of office bearers within both the local government sphere and the esteemed institution of traditional leadership.
"MEC Buthelezi extended his sincere appreciation to the SAPS for their professionalism and perseverance, which have culminated in this significant step towards closure for Councillor Ndlovu's family, colleagues, and the Umngeni community.
"The MEC has also called upon members of the public to continue to come forward with information that will lead to the apprehension of suspects in the attacks on office bearers such as councillors, Amakhosi and izinduna."
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