KZN police have launched a manhunt for an alleged murder suspect accused of fatally assaulting his uncle.

It is believed that Silwayiphi Mncwango (59), of Vuna Reserve in Nongoma, had a quarrel with his nephew on Saturday night, during which the deceased reportedly slapped his nephew.

The nephew is alleged to have run away and returned with a metal rod, assaulting his uncle and leaving him to die.

The duo was alone when the incident occurred.

According to Induna Mnguni, the suspect came to his house to inform him he was leaving the area.

“He said he was leaving because he had assaulted his uncle with an iron rod, but did not divulge that he had killed him. He said he was leaving the area and was going to Newcastle,” says Mnguni.

According to a police source, the deceased’s neighbour became worried and went to Mncwango’s house to investigate.

“When she arrived at the deceased’s residence, she discovered the door was closed but the window was open.

“The deceased was not at home. Only a panga and an axe were found on Mncwango’s bed. She then began searching for him outside the premises, and she found the body lying on the ground next to the goats’ kraal. The body had been covered with a blanket.

“She then reported the matter to the local authorities, including Induna Mnguni,” says the source.

Zululand Cluster SAPS spokesperson Captain Nkosie Gwala says a murder case was registered at Nongoma Police Station for investigation.

“The deceased was badly assaulted on his face and forehead. A [metal rod] and a piece of treated timber with blood stains were found at the scene and were taken as exhibits,” adds Gwala.