Limpopo police hunt killers of Ha Makhuvha leader
Ha Makhuvha leader shot dead near Thohoyandou amid long-standing chieftaincy dispute, as police launch a manhunt for suspects.
LIMPOPO – Shock and fear have gripped residents of Ha Makhuvha village near Vhufuli outside Thohoyandou, following the brutal killing of local traditional leader Vhamusanda Ntikedzeni Makhuvha in the early hours last Monday.
The 59-year-old was shot dead when two masked and armed men stormed his home shortly after midnight in what police say was a housebreaking and robbery at the royal residence.
According to police, the suspects forced their way into the house by breaking a window before demanding money and vehicle keys.
During the incident, one victim sustained a gunshot wound and was rushed to a local hospital for treatment, while Makhuvha was declared dead at the scene.
The suspects reportedly fled with a white Toyota Hilux (registration number FVN 938L), a laptop, a television set and two cellphones.
They were said to be wearing balaclavas and security-type uniforms. One suspect was armed with a firearm while the other carried a knife.
Community leader Ndivhuho Munyai described Makhuvha as a humble leader who was dedicated to improving the lives of people in the rural village.
“He was a peace-loving person who always strived to bring development to the community. We never expected to lose such a wise traditional leader in such a cruel manner,” said Munyai.
Makhuvha’s death comes after years of tension over the rightful heir to the Makhuvha chieftaincy, a dispute that has divided members of the clan.
In 2023, Thovhele Mailausungwa Tshivhase visited the village in an attempt to resolve the leadership conflict.
During the visit, he declared that Vhamusanda Ntikedzeni Makhuvha was the legitimate traditional leader of Ha Makhuvha and the rightful heir to the chieftainship.
At the time, Tshivhase urged members of the Makhuvha clan to stop fighting over the throne and respect the decision taken by traditional leadership structures.
“All rituals confirming the rightful traditional leader were performed by khadzis and makhotsimunene together with family members.
“If he was not the legitimate leader, the person disputing his position could have interdicted him,” Tshivhase said during the visit.
Provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe strongly condemned the killing and ordered a specialised team to track down the suspects.
“I have set up a specialised team to mobilise the necessary resources to ensure these perpetrators are swiftly brought to book,” she said.
Police appealed to the public to assist with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.
Contact the investigating officer, Const Tshavhungwe Rendani on 072 189 2544, the nearest police station, or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
Information can also be shared through the MySAPS App. Police investigations are ongoing.
