THE eMpembeni community is in shock following the death of KwaDube Tribal Authority administrator, Hendrick Mahlawula.
He was gunned down in his car at eMabuyeni on Friday.
According to police, Mahlawula was traveling back home from a community event with other passengers at 5pm. He was approached by armed men in a Citi Golf who opened fire on his vehicle.
He sustained two bullet wounds to his upper back and one in his leg. He died on the scene. His car was reportedly sprayed with 16 bullet holes, however, other passengers escaped unharmed.
Mahlawula was appointed as council administrator by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) last year, after the death of acting chief Charles Chili.
His appointment caused confusion in the community, and resulted in angry protests by villagers who locked the gate to the tribal court, denying entry to tribal councilors.
His associates and other community members told the Zululand Observer that he was a humble leader who inspired change in the community.
eSikhawini police spokesperson Lt Thembinkosi Mkhumane, said no arrests had been made.
