Five arrested for mass murder

THE task team established to investigate the brutal attack and murder of six people at KwaCeza over the weekend has resulted in the arrest of five suspects aged between 25 and 33 years.

Four unlicensed firearms were also recovered and they will be sent for ballistic tests to establish if they were used in the crime.

The suspects appeared in the Mahlabathini Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on six counts of murder and also for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

They were remanded in custody pending further investigations.

The victims were killed in an attacked on the Zondo homestead in Mpambulekweni on Saturday evening.

An 18-month-old boy, Vangeli Xulu was on of the victims.

His mother, Sukumile Sibiya (16), died in hospital on Sunday after being hacked with a bush knife.

Others killed were Khululiwe Buthelezi (30), Aphiwe Zondo (6), Emma Zondo (62) and Mpandlana Zondo (73), who were shot dead before their rondavel was set alight.

The motive for the killing is still under investigation.

Condolences

MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Willies Mchunu, condemned the incident, describing it as ‘inhuman and callous.’

‘We are shocked at the violence nature of this murder, which also claimed the life of a three-year-old child.

‘At this stage, we appeal to the community to exercise restraint and work with the police to ensure that those responsible face the full might of the law,’ said Mchunu.

KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner, Lt-Gen Mmamonnye Ngobeni, commended the police officers for the speedy arrests of the suspects.

‘I appeal to the community to remain calm and allow the police to finalise their investigation without interference.

‘Police will continue to monitor the situation in the area,’ she said.

Social workers visited the surviving family members and community on Monday.

Social Development MEC Weziwe Thusi says they would support the family during this difficult time.

A funeral service is likely to be held on Saturday.