Limpopo chief shot, killed in cold blood in Gauteng
Chief Mulatedzi Sinthumule was dragged out of his vehicle and shot in the lower body. He died at the scene, says the police.
8LIMPOPO – A search is underway for the suspects who were involved in the fatal shooting of chief Mulatedzi Sinthumule. The 47-year-old chief was shot and killed on August 31 in Gauteng.
According to Gauteng provincial police spokesperson, Col Mavela Masondo, it is reported that at around 15:30 on the day of the murder, Sinthumule’s white luxury vehicle was seen parked next to the golf course at Thembisa, with two passengers inside. Masondo explained that another vehicle with between three and four passengers apparently stopped next to the vehicle.
“They approached Sinthumule’s vehicle and dragged him out of the car. During the struggle he was shot in his lower body. He died at the scene. Community members, who were in the vicinity and saw what happened, apprehended one of the suspects and assaulted him. The man was later handed over to the police, who arrived at the scene.”
Masondo said the 25-year-old suspect was taken to hospital under police guard. He will be charged with murder. A search is underway for the other suspects that are still at large, he confirmed.
Police appeal to anyone who might have information that can help with the investigation or assist in apprehending the suspects, to call their nearest police station or call crime stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be given anonymously via the MySAPS App that can be downloaded from any smartphone.
Sinthumule’s death has been described as a huge loss to the Tshirolwe community and royal council in Nzhelele . According to members of the community, he was a dedicated leader who ensured development. The late chief’s elder brother, Eric Sinthumule, who is also the spokesperson of Sinthumule royal council at Tshirolwe, said he spoke to his brother at about 12:00 on the day of the murder, but when he tried to phone him around 17:00, his phone went unanswered. He was informed of his brother’s death an hour later.
Eric described his late brother as a modest and compassionate man who had the desire to help his people and uplift his community. During his rein, community councils such as the traditional council and Sanco committees cooperated and ensured development in the community. He died while the community council was in the process of registering a land claim. “The community had lost a great leader. Sinthumule was a leader who understood the needs of his people.”
Khoshikhulu Mphephu Ramabulana expressed his condolences with the Sinthumule family and said Sinthumule had served the area with diligence.
“He had contributed a great deal to shaping the local Sinthumule territorial council and was a selfless visionary and dedicated leader to the people. He will be remembered for his hard work.”
