A 38-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a deadly ambush on the R102 in Mtwalume that left three people dead and another injured.
The arrest was made on Wednesday this week in the Nhlabankosi area, after a combined operation by several police units, including Hibberdene detectives, the Provincial Murder and Robbery Task Team, Ugu Tactical Response Team, eThekwini Infrastructure Task Team, Provincial Task Team PES, Metro Trio Task Team and the Tracing Team.
The incident took place on Thursday, June 27.
Sandile Mkhize (45), Xoliswa Mbhele (33) and Ndunduzo Duma (34) were travelling along the R102 near Mtwalume when they were ambushed by unknown gunmen.
Mkhize, who was reportedly returning from court, and his two passengers were fatally injured. A person waiting at a nearby bus stop was also caught in the crossfire and taken to hospital for treatment after being injured by a stray bullet.
According to police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, ongoing investigations and follow-up work led detectives to the man now facing charges.
He has been charged with three counts of murder, attempted murder and armed robbery.
In addition to these charges, he has also been linked to separate cases of stock theft, theft of a motor vehicle, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The man is expected to appear in the Umzumbe Magistrate’s Court tomorrow (Friday, August 1).
Shona Aylward is a vastly experienced journalist working as a senior reporter. Aside from her extensive community involvement and story writing, she is also involved in creative page layout, and the various media platforms. Shona began her career with Caxton at the Southlands Sun. Previous to this she worked in the marketing industry for surf magazines. Shona is a renown 'greenie' and champions environmental causes. She is also Mom to a number of dogs and cats, and the occasional uninvited snake. When she can find some spare time, it's usually to the beach that she heads.
