KwaZulu-Natal police arrest suspect linked to triple murder and robbery

KwaZulu-Natal police have arrested a 38-year-old man in connection with three counts of murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery.

The arrest took place on Wednesday, in Nhlabankosi, a village in Umthwalume, following an intensive investigation by local detectives.

The case dates back to June 27, when Sandile Mkhize, 45, Xoliswa Mbhele, 33, and Ndunduzo Duma, 34, were tragically ambushed while driving along the R102 Road in Umthwalume.

Mkhize had just left the court when the ambush occurred, resulting in all three victims fatally wounded. In a collateral incident, a nearby bus stop patron was injured by a stray bullet and required medical attention.

Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, said the investigation was led by the Hibberdene detectives, whose commitment to justice played a crucial role in unveiling the circumstances surrounding this heinous crime.

Their relentless pursuit of leads paid off when they received critical information regarding the suspect's location.

Subsequently, an operation involving multiple police units including the Provincial Murder and Robbery Task Team, Ugu Tactical Response Team, and the Metro Trio Task Team was launched to apprehend the suspect. Officers swiftly proceeded to Nhlabankosi, where he was captured and arrested.

In addition to the murder charges, the suspect is also expected to face charges related to stock theft, theft of a motor vehicle, and unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition, suggesting a broader criminal activity beyond the initial allegations.

The accused is scheduled to appear in the Umzumbe Magistrate’s Court on Friday where he will face the full weight of the law regarding his alleged crimes.

IOL