Update: Alleged hit-men linked to political killing
It is believed that the 12 men detained are linked to the Gamede clan
The alleged hit-men arrested by members of the Hawks on Sunday morning are believed to be linked to the killing of ANC ward candidate Khanyisile Ngobese-Sibisi, as well as a taxi owner.
Over the weekend, there was a heavy police presence in the Ezakheni area and a police helicopter was seen hovering overhead.
Task Team and Hawks members were roped in to lead the investigation following a spate of political and taxi violence related killings in the province.
An intelligence-driven operation resulted in a breakthrough which saw the officers apprehending 12 suspects on Sunday.
Under heavy police guard, the men were brought to Ladysmith police station before being transported out of town. TRT and K9 Unit vehicles escorted the alleged hit-men.
The suspects, aged between 24 and 50, are believed to be involved in two separate murders. In one of the incidents on July 18, ANC ward candidate Khanyisile Ngobese-Sibisi was fatally shot near the Leonardsville sports grounds.
In an earlier incident, on January 23, taxi owner Muhlawumbeni Zungu and four passengers were shot at by unknown suspects. Zungu died on the way to hospital.
It is believed that the 12 men detained are linked to the Gamede clan. Four of them were charged with murder and possession of unlicensed firearms. More arrests are imminent.
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