PREMIER MTSHWENI-TSIPANE APPLAUDS POLICE FOR ARREST LINKED TO MKHONDO KILLINGS

18 January 2023

Mpumalanga Premier, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane has expressed satisfaction about police’s swift action which led to the arrest of a suspect linked to the fatal shooting in Mkhondo, last Friday. The Premier applauded a special multi-disciplinary task team, led by Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela for swiftly arresting the suspect, allegedly linked to the recent murders of three people in Mkhondo Local Municipality.

Ward Councillor, Sibonelo Ntshangase, his friend Sizwe Bingo and Sandile Khumalo, a Mechanic, were shot and killed last Friday. The 40-year-old suspect will appear at the Piet Retief Magistrates’ court, tomorrow (Thursday), in connection with the three murders.

Premier Mtshweni-Tsipane says the arrest signifies a high level of commitment on an emotional matter. “This is truly a victory for the bereaved families as well as the people of Mkhondo. I am certain that the hard work of the police will not only bring justice for the families, but will further restore community trust in our police,” the Premier explained.

So far, three arrests have been made since the establishment of the special investigations team. These include former Mkhondo Executive Mayor, Mr Vusi Motha. Premier Mtshweni-Tsipane has urged the police to bolster the investigation team, in order to crack unresolved murder cases across Mpumalanga. “Currently, we have several cases, including twelve (12) murder cases, that are politically-related, dating back to 2009. We need to work hard to resolve them and help the bereaved families to find closure. It is only when killers have been sentenced that the families can find closure,” says the Premier.

She reiterated her assertion that no one regardless of their position, is above the law. She called on the police to execute their work without fear or favour, in pursuit of those involved in criminal activities.

ENDS...


Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government

Spokesperson of the Premier: Ms Sibongile Mkani-Mpolweni
Tel: (013) 766 2453
Mobile: 082 962138
E-mail: mpolwenis@prem.mpg.gov.za

Provincial Government’s Spokesperson: George Mthethwa
Tel: (013) 766 2242
Mobile: 083 302 2774
E-mail: gpmthethwa@mpg.gov.za