The brutal murder of Ballito chef Siyanda Ndlela has left colleagues and friends devastated, as police investigate a series of weekend murders.

Ndlela, who worked at The Waffle Society in Ballito, was found dead in Shaka’s Head on Saturday morning. The 32-year-old had reportedly been seen arguing with a man at a local tavern the night before.

It is alleged that he was later ambushed while walking home and fatally attacked by the same man and accomplices. A close friend, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, described the scene as deeply traumatic.

“I was unable to go to work that day. What I saw traumatised me. It was the most horrible thing I have ever seen,” he said.

Ndlela, who studied at Sanzaf Culinary Arts, had been working at The Waffle Society since December. He is survived by his teenage daughter.

“He was an excellent chef, always smiling, kind and gentle, and a valued member of the team. We are devastated by his loss,” said employer Clare Sykes.

Umhlali police spokesperson Sergeant Makhosi Khumalo confirmed that one suspect has been arrested, while others remain at large. Police recovered a knife and blood-stained clothing believed to be linked to the attack.

In a separate incident, 29-year-old Sandele Austin Mthembu, who worked at KFC in Ballito, was shot dead at his Nkobongo home on Friday night after an unknown suspect gained entry and opened fire. No arrests have been made.

Gabito Mtshili, believed to be about 36, was also shot dead in Nkobongo, while 30-year-old Lindokuhle Shabane was killed in Driefontein. The motives remain unclear, and investigations are ongoing.