Grieving Bheki Mbokazi, brother to victim Mandla, said his family will not rest until justice is done Photo by Muzi Zincume
The area of KwaDlangezwa, KwaZulu-Natal is known for peace, but the increase of criminal activities are feared to be chasing away academics living in the area, Zululand Observer reports. KwaDlangezwa is located next to the University of Zululand.
This sentiment was expressed by Empangeni businessman Bheki Mbokazi, speaking at the funeral service of his brother Mandla, held at University of Zululand at the weekend.
Mandla Mbokazi (61) was among the six people who were murdered during a recent robbery at Vulindlela Shopping Complex.
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He was shot and killed while seated in his car, when gunmen opened fire after robbing a supermarket.
Mandla’s son, Celimpilo paying tribute to his father
Photo by Muzi Zincume
“My brother was a people’s man and was loved by everybody. We lost a family man in a true sense of the word.
“We will not rest until justice is done. We want to see all suspects implicated in this case paying a heavy price for this criminality. They must rot in jail.
“My brother was passionate about helping the poor and the needy, including students who had no place to stay; he would accommodate them in his house for free,” he said.
Other mourners who paid tribute to the ‘humble man of God’ included his son, Celimpilo, and Chairperson of Umfolozi TVET College Dr Themba Fakazi.
Family, friends and relatives came to pay their last respect to Mandla Mbokazi at the University of Zululand
“We are gathered here to remember a man who was instrumental in the establishment of TVET Colleges in the province. His contribution in the uplitfment of the quality of education and community development projects was immeasurable. He led the Amangwe Village as its Chairperson with distinction. We feel the pain of losing such a human being,” said Fakazi.
Mandla had five minibus taxis operating in Gauteng and one in KZN.
He is survived by his son Celimpilo, eight daughters and three grandchildren.
Ward Councillor Muzi Mpungose said the police have agreed to increase visibility in the area, to ensure that similar incidents do not strike again.
Three suspects who are alleged to be responsible for six counts of murder, attempted murder and robbery appeared at Empangeni Magistrates’ Court and were remanded in custody for further investigation.
One of them is alleged to be linked with political killing in the province.
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