…By Enitan Thompson for TDPel Media.
South African police are on the hunt for Sicelo Dambayi Sikakane, believed to be the mastermind behind the murder of three members of the Mkhize family, with three others surviving the attack, in eMtilombo, Eshowe.
According to reports, Sikakane and another suspect, Thuthukani Mthethwa, entered the residence of the Mkhize family and asked for Nduduzo Nkonzo Mkhize.
An argument ensued and Sikakane produced a firearm.
Nduduzo ran back into the house, with the suspects following him, and subsequently fatally shot him, as well as Nokuphiwe Thembekile Mkhize and 14-year-old Muzikayise Anele Mkhize, who were also in the house.
Two suspects have been arrested so far.
Mthethwa was taken into custody the following morning and has already appeared in court, where he was remanded in custody.
However, Sikakane is still at large, and police believe he is hiding in one of the hostels in Johannesburg.
A warrant of arrest was issued for Sikakane on 17 April 2023, and the Eshowe Magistrate’s Court has urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the Detective Commander of Eshowe, Lieutenant Colonel Thokozani Mkhabela, or Crime Stop.
Commentary:
This horrific incident adds to the already-high levels of violence and crime in South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.
The brutal nature of the murder and attempted murder is a reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to address violence in the country.
The ongoing manhunt for Sikakane is crucial in ensuring justice is served for the Mkhize family and their loved ones.
It also highlights the importance of community members and law enforcement agencies working together to bring perpetrators of violence to justice.