One of SA’s most wanted suspected killers, sought in connection with the murder of a senior police officer in Mpumalanga and multiple cash-in-transit robberies, could be hiding near Pietermaritzburg.

According to an article published by The Witness, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) is calling on the public to help locate Prince Gift Mdluli, believed to be in his 30s.

Mdluli was last seen in Bergville, Howick and Umzimkhulu.

Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Philani Nkosi confirmed that a warrant of arrest has been issued for Mdluli. He is implicated in the murder of Lieutenant-Colonel Piet Pretorius, who was gunned down on January 16.

Pretorius (59) was the commander of the vehicle identification unit in Ermelo.

So far, five suspects, including a former police officer, have been arrested in connection with Pretorius’ murder.

Mthobisi Nkosi, Aubrey Xaba, Skhumbuzo Skhakhane, Nyiko Mujovo, and Valencia Skhosana abandoned their bail application in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court this week.

Nkosi, Xaba, Skhakhane and Mujovo were remanded in custody, with their next court date scheduled for April 10. Skhosana proceeded with her bail application and was also remanded in custody.

“Her bail application is set to continue [tomorrow],” says Nkosi.

Nkosi warned residents not to approach Mdluli if spotted, describing him as dangerous and armed.

“If spotted, we urge community members to inform their local authorities. They must not approach the suspect. We believe that he is dangerous and is armed,” says Nkosi.

He also cautioned against spreading false information on social media.

A recent post claimed Mdluli had been arrested in the Richmond area, while others alleged he ‘kills people in every house he visits’ while posing as a potential tenant.

“Although he is a very dangerous person, we do not want to cause panic. Social media is a powerful tool, which is why we are using it to try and locate the suspect.

“However, false information, such as claims that he has been apprehended, can hinder our investigation. Those spreading false information could face serious consequences,” says Nkosi.

The Hawks urge anyone with information on Mdluli’s whereabouts to contact their local authorities immediately.

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