KZN Political Killings Task Team takes over probe into murder of ANC eThekwini councillor - Inside Politics
Staff ReporterKwaZulu-Natal’s Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) has taken over the investigation into the murder of ANC eThekwini councillor Sibusiso Khwela, who was shot dead while working at his office in. . .
Staff ReporterKwaZulu-Natal’s Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) has taken over the investigation into the murder of ANC eThekwini councillor Sibusiso Khwela, who was shot dead while working at his office in Klaarwater on Thursday. Police confirmed late on Thursday that the specialist team would lead the investigation into the killing of Khwela, the councillor for Ward 17 in eThekwini. “The PKTT will lead and coordinate the investigation, with PKTT detectives already on the ground to ensure that those responsible for this senseless murder are identified, arrested and brought before the courts,” police said in a statement. The eThekwini Municipality said Khwela was gunned down by an unknown assailant while assisting residents from his Klaarwater office. Council Speaker Thabani Nyawose visited Khwela’s family, and described him as a disciplined and selfless councillor who had put the interests of his community first. “As the council we have lost a selfless leader, a champion for development and a true patriot who loved his community, prioritised its needs and served its people diligently. We are saddened that his life was cut short in the very office from which he rendered services to residents,” said Nyawose. Nyawose said the killing was particularly painful as the current council term neared its end and urged residents with information to assist investigators. “We call upon law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in their quest to apprehend those responsible for this senseless act. We also call upon our communities to come forward with any information that will assist the police in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” added Speaker Nyawose. KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi on Friday condemned the killing, saying that violence against councillors could create fear in communities ahead of the 4 November local government elections. “As KZN COGTA, we are deeply saddened by the senseless killing of a Councillor while he was carrying out his duties. Such criminal acts seek to distabalise and instill fear among community members as the country prepares for the local government elections. Ward Councillors are expected to carry out their responsibilities without fear of intimidation or violence for the betterment of our communities. “We call on any community members who may have information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible to cooperate with the South African Police Services so that justice can be served for the Khwela family,” said MEC Buthelezi. He extended his condolences to Khwela’s family, friends, colleagues and the eThekwini council. The municipality also extended condolences to Khwela’s family, residents of Ward 17 and the ANC. INSIDE POLITICS