The African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape has received the shocking news of the brutal murder of Ward 23 Councillor at Mhlontlo Local Municipality in Qumbu, Councillor Mkhululi Khonza.
According to the Eastern Cape Head of Communications of the ANC, Gift Ngqondi, Khonza was shot and killed on Tuesday, August 22, on the way home to his village in Qumbu.
“We strongly condemn this brutal killing of our public representative as it has no place in our democracy. We call on all relevant law enforcement agencies to intensify their work to hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to book to the full extent of the rule of law. We pledge solidarity and convey our heartfelt condolences to the Khonza family, relatives, comrades and loved ones. We lower our banner in honour of his passing in the service of the people,” said Ngqondi.
Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli confirmed that Police officers are investigating two shooting incidents in Qumbu that claimed three lives, including Khonza.W/O Nkohli confirmed that Khonza (48), was fatally shot inside his vehicle under unknown circumstances, just a few kilometres outside Qumbu towards the Balasi Administrative Area.
On the same day, it is alleged that around 18:00, two people who were travelling on a gravel road at Balasi locality in Qumbu in a Toyota double cab vehicle, were fatally shot in what is believed to be a drive-by-shooting.
The deceased have been identified as Bandla Xhentsa (47) and Lindani Dube (27). According to a reliable source, Xhentsa was a well-known horse owner who was travelling with his jockey (Dube).
W/O Nkohli confirmed the incident and said that both victims were declared dead at the scene. “It is further said that the suspects were travelling in a Toyota Fortuner. The incident’s circumstances are sketchy, but the police follow all leads,” concluded Nkohli.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects while investigating the circumstances surrounding these two incidents.
