Tshwarelo Hunter Mogakane
Pretoria - Mpumalanga traditional leader Chief Tikhontele Dlamini of the kaLomshiya Tribal Authority has been arrested in connection with his son's murder.
Dlamini, 80, appeared in the Kabokweni Magistrate's Court on a charge of murder yesterday. He is accused of orchestrating a hit on his son, who was ambushed and fatally shot having a meal with friends at his home in January last year.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said: “The father was arrested at Sharlock, Low’s Creek outside Mbombela in connection with the murder of Zwelithini Dlamini, who was murdered at the age of 49. The victim was shot and killed at his home at Matsulu near Nelspruit in the evening of January 4, 2021.
“After Dlamini was murdered, a team of investigators was assembled to probe the case. The members worked tirelessly and spent sleepless nights.
“The arrest of the suspect, a prominent figure in the community, came as a breakthrough into the r case. The investigation is still ongoing and more details will unfold,” Mdhluli added.
Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe said it was regrettable to see a respected leader arrested for murder.
“This is an indication that no one is above the law. While we await due processes to unfold, it is saddening and deeply regrettable for such allegations to be levelled against a leader like Tikhontele.
“Leaders at all levels are expected to play a role in crime prevention and protection of communities. We are therefore calling on traditional leaders across the province to work with us in the fight against crime.”
Pretoria News