IFP regional secretary and iLembe District councillor Simphiwe Cele (54) has been arrested for attempted murder after allegedly opening fire during a recent altercation in Lindelani.

Cele was arrested on September 5 and appeared in court the following Monday. He has since been released on R1 000 bail. KwaDukuza police confirmed that the incident is under investigation.

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the party was dealing with the matter internally.

“The matter is before the political oversight committee and a report will be served to the NEC at its next meeting,” said Hlengwa.

“The IFP views this matter in a serious light and it is receiving priority attention.”

Meanwhile, the General Gizenga Mpanza Regional African National Congress (ANC) welcomed the police investigation.

“Witnesses must be protected to ensure a fair trial, and justice must send a strong message against criminals terrorising our communities,” said ANC regional task team coordinator Nkosenhle Mngadi.

Further north, the ANC is dealing with its own internal matter after suspending Mandeni Ward 17 councillor Sphesihle Ntuli following the death of a resident of his ward, Siyabonga Makhoba.

Makhoba went missing in January 2024 and his decomposed body was discovered months later in Isithebe. A post-mortem revealed he had died from a head injury before his body was burned.

In November 2023, Makhoba had laid charges against Ntuli, accusing him of assault, kidnapping and attempted murder. The case collapsed following Makhoba’s disappearance.
ANC provincial spokesperson Fanle Sibisi confirmed Ntuli’s suspension.

“The ANC condemns violence, abuse of authority and actions that violate the dignity and safety of society. This decision reflects our commitment to protecting the community,” said Sibisi.

Makhoba’s family welcomed the decision, describing it as a “bold and principled step.”

Ntuli has denied any wrongdoing.

“I believe the decision against me is political. I have not been charged in this case and I feel it should be dealt with in court,” he said.

Police have yet to made any arrests in connection with Makhoba’s murder.

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