KwaZulu-Natal police are urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating Mpiyakhe Thobani Mbatha (25), a suspected hitman wanted for the murder of Mphilisi Ngubane, the chairperson of the Fredville Taxi Association. Mbatha is also accused of attacking Ngubane’s twin brother in the same ambush.
The incident unfolded on 13 September 2024, when the twin brothers, aged 35, were ambushed by Mbatha and two accomplices while traveling on Shezi Main Road in Mpumalanga Township. The suspects opened fire on the victims, fatally wounding Mphilisi Ngubane. Fortunately, his twin brother managed to narrowly escape the attack.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, a police spokesperson, confirmed that the authorities have opened charges of murder and attempted murder at the Mpumalanga Police Station, and the case has since been transferred to the Provincial Taxi Violence unit for further investigation. A warrant for Mbatha’s arrest has been issued by the Mpumalanga Magistrate’s Court.
The police are urging anyone with information about Mbatha’s whereabouts to contact Sergeant Khuyana at 079 490 8250 or 031 325 6393, or to call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
In a major crackdown on crime, police in KwaZulu-Natal arrested a staggering 12,593 suspects during various operations in October 2024. Among the arrested individuals were 170 suspects for murder, 261 for attempted murder, and 250 for suspected rape.
The police also managed to recover 345 firearms and nearly 3,000 rounds of ammunition, including 23 rifles and 17 homemade illegal firearms. These efforts are part of the broader initiative to combat violent crime and ensure safety across the province. Additionally, 4,010 suspects were arrested for contact crimes, including robberies, carjackings, truck hijackings, and assaults.
In terms of property-related crimes, more than 500 suspects were arrested, including 252 for burglaries (with 99 at business premises) and 51 for stock theft.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda announced that these operations are part of ongoing efforts to ensure a safer festive season, with increased police visibility expected in the coming months.
LIMPOPO WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY STABBING HER BOYFRIEND TO DEATH
A 39-year-old woman has been arrested in Modimolle, Limpopo, for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend to death during a domestic dispute. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, following a visit to a local tavern.
According to the police, the couple—both foreign nationals—had been at the tavern, but the boyfriend left earlier to go home. When the girlfriend returned, the two reportedly had a heated argument that escalated violently. The boyfriend was found lying outside the house with stab wounds to his upper body and was declared dead at the scene by paramedics.
Limpopo Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, condemned the incident and urged romantic partners facing challenges in their relationships to seek professional counselling to prevent such tragic outcomes. The woman is expected to appear in court shortly to face charges of murder.
