Hitman, Sibongiseni Mdakane appeared in the Pietermaritzburg High Court yesterday, 2 where he pleaded guilty of killing a teacher, Vusi Ntombela (47) and a learner Elizabeth Nhleko (12) as well as wounding another learner at Luvisi Primary school on June 2.

After the court heard how he committed these crimes, he was found guilty and convicted on all three counts. The case was remanded for today for sentencing. Mbhekiseni Khambule (38) who allegedly hired Mdakane for R15 000 will appear today, in the Nquthu Magistrate’s Court.

The motive for the killing is unknown at this stage. Nquthu police have registered cases of murder as well as attempted murder and immediately began with their investigation. Within the hour three suspects were arrested and a firearm believed to be the murder weapon was recovered. The suspects are in custody and are expected to appear in court soon.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni congratulated Nquthu police for the swift arrests. “Whilst we condemn the brutal manner in which this educator and pupil were killed, we are pleased that police were able to act swiftly and trace the suspects immediately after the crime was committed. We will ensure that we throw the book at them,” she said.