MKHONDO – A prominent political figure and PR Councilor at the Mkhondo Municipality in the Gert Sibande, Muzi Manyathi (41) was shot and killed at a fuel station during the evening of Friday, November 4 at about 18:30.

According to police, a Mercedes-Benz occupied by two people (registration number: XTN559GP) was seen moving from one fuel pump to another without refilling, while Manyathi was reportedly buying something from the kiosk.

One male occupant allegedly exited the Mercedes, armed with a firearm, and shot the victim multiple times at close range. The suspects then fled the scene in the aforementioned vehicle.

The Piet Retief police and ambulance services were dispatched when notified of the incident, but Manyathi was pronounced dead on the scene. A murder case is being investigated.

The Mercedes-Benz was later located abandoned next to a dam, and preliminary investigation suggests that the number plates on the vehicle do not appear to be valid. It was also determined that the car was allegedly stolen in April in Brakpan.

Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, has since organized a team of experts in the field of investigation to probe the case.

According to a press release issued, thus far, no arrests have been made, but police are working around the clock.

The police urge anyone with information that may assist in apprehending the perpetrators to immediately call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

Lieutenant General Manamela has strongly condemned the shooting and has vowed that police will not rest until the perpetrators are brought to book so that justice is served for the victim’s family.

“We trust that the team will swiftly make a breakthrough,” Lieutenant General Manamela said.