An African National Congress (ANC) ward councillor in eThekwini has been shot and killed at his office in Klaarwater, west of Durban, prompting a murder investigation and a manhunt for the suspect. Police say the motive for the killing is still unknown.
The victim has been identified as ANC councillor Sibusiso Khwela. According to preliminary information, an unknown man entered Khwela’s office on Thursday morning and requested assistance before allegedly luring him outside, where he was shot multiple times.
The suspect fled the scene on foot after the shooting. Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), including the Political Killings Task Team, have since taken over the investigation.
Sibusiso Khwela Shot Dead While Assisting Resident
The Sibusiso Khwela shooting occurred after the councillor was allegedly approached by a man posing as a resident seeking help. Police and eyewitnesses said the suspect asked Khwela to accompany him outside the office before producing a firearm and opening fire.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda confirmed that officers are searching for the suspect.
“The suspect fled the scene on foot. The motive of the killing remains unknown at this stage, and a manhunt for the suspect is underway,” said Netshiunda.
eThekwini Speaker Pays Tribute To Sibusiso Khwela
eThekwini Municipality Speaker Thabani Nyawose described Sibusiso Khwela as a committed public servant who lost his life while serving his community. He said the circumstances of the killing have created concern among councillors.
“This incident creates fear. Fear to all councillors because if you are being shot and killed in your office when serving your community, how are you supposed to do your work? Because you can only service your community in an office.
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“Councillor Khwela was here without security because he was not aware of any threat directed to him. As Speaker of council and also as the ANC regional Chairperson, I didn’t know there were threats directed to Khwela.”
SAPS Political Killings Task Team Investigates Sibusiso Khwela Murder
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The SAPS Political Killings Task Team has joined the investigation into the murder of Sibusiso Khwela. Detectives are processing the crime scene and gathering evidence as efforts continue to trace the gunman.
Police have not yet announced any arrests, and the motive for the killing remains under investigation.
