The Pietermaritzburg High Court has found Sabelo Phewa guilty of the 2017 murder of Richmond Local Municipality manager, Sibusiso Edward Sithole, in a case that has cast a long shadow over political violence and corruption in KZN.

The Witness reports that Sithole, who was investigating alleged fraud, corruption and tender irregularities within the municipality at the time, was gunned down at the Richmond licensing office while on his way to meet with councillors. His assassination sent shockwaves through the province, with suspicions from the outset that the killing was linked to his anti-corruption efforts.

The case saw slow progress until 2018, when the SAPS Political Killings Task Team took over the investigation. Their work led to the arrest of Phewa, and a firearm recovered at the time of his arrest was subsequently linked to several other killings, including the murder of Amos Ngcobo. In that case, Ngcobo’s wife admitted to orchestrating the hit and turned state witness, receiving a five-year prison sentence.

Yesterday, the Pietermaritzburg High Court found Phewa guilty on five counts:

• The murder of Sibusiso Sithole
• The murder of Amos Ngcobo
• Attempted murder of police officers during his arrest
• Possession of an unlicensed firearm
• Unlawful possession of ammunition.

Police have welcomed the outcome, calling it a significant breakthrough in the fight against politically motivated killings. In a statement, the SAPS said the verdict sends a strong message that such crimes will not go unpunished.

The Richmond Local Municipality also expressed deep relief at the verdict, describing it as a ‘landmark judgment’ that has brought long-awaited justice to the family, colleagues and community who admired Sithole’s leadership.

Richmond Mayor Melikhaya Ngcongo commended the work of investigators and the justice system.

“While we still hope the convicted killer will reveal the full motive behind this calculated assassination, we are pleased that the matter received the priority it deserved. This breakthrough is a direct result of unwavering efforts by the justice cluster and growing community pressure demanding accountability.”

He recalled a recent visit by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu during which a formal memorandum was submitted demanding progress in the Sithole case and other unresolved political killings in the region.

“Today proves that justice delayed is not justice denied. The successful prosecution of the man who took away a leader and servant of the people is a clear signal that the rule of law will prevail. We hope the sentence will reflect the gravity of this heinous crime,” said Ngcongo.

Sithole was remembered for his commitment to service delivery and development in Richmond.

“He was a visionary whose only mission was to uplift our people. His loss robbed Richmond of progress. Seeing this man found guilty is a moment of justice, but it is also a reminder of the price paid by those who dare to serve with integrity,” the Mayor said.

Sentencing will be handed down in the Durban High Court on July 31.

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