By Karabo Marifi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully arrested four suspects wanted in connection with the recent mass murder in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 18 people. The suspects were captured within 24 hours after SAPS launched a nationwide manhunt, thanks to swift action by the police and crucial information provided by community members.
In a joint operation led by KwaZulu-Natal police, the suspects—Songezo ‘Mashiya’ Vuma (20), Bonga ‘Rico’ Hintsa (31), Aphiwe ‘AP’ Ndende (25), and Lwando ‘Abi’ Shakes (31)—were arrested at a rented accommodation in the Mkholombe informal settlement in Port Shepstone. According to police reports, the men were discovered following a tip-off from a concerned resident.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo explained that a task force was immediately deployed to the area upon receiving the information. “A swift operation was put in motion, and the three suspects, aged between 22 and 31, were arrested. The operation is ongoing, as police continue searching for the firearm allegedly used in the murders,” Mbambo stated.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the public for their role in the investigation. “In less than 24 hours, South Africans from all walks of life came together to aid in locating the suspects. This unity underscores our collective determination to combat crime and restore peace,” Masemola said in a press statement.
The initial suspect in the case, Siphosoxolo Myekethe, who was on parole at the time of his arrest, appeared in the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court earlier in the week. He abandoned his bail application, and the case has been postponed until November 26, 2024, for further investigation. Myekethe faces 18 charges of murder and one count of illegal firearm possession, involving an AK47 assault rifle.
Cabinet has condemned the mass murder and praised the SAPS for the quick apprehension of the suspects. “Cabinet has welcomed the swift deployment of specialist law enforcement officers to investigate the incident. This progress is encouraging, as it demonstrates the commitment to ensuring justice and safety for all South Africans,” the government said in a statement on Thursday.
Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu and Commissioner Masemola are scheduled to address the media on Thursday, shedding further light on the case and affirming the government’s dedication to combating violent crime.
The gruesome event took place on September 28, 2024, when gunmen opened fire at two homesteads in Ngobozana village, Lusikisiki, killing 18 people and wounding five others. The suspects reportedly sought refuge in the Mkholombe informal settlement after the incident. Residents of the area expressed shock, recounting that the suspects were seen watching a Bafana Bafana match the night before their arrest.
With the suspects now in custody, the focus shifts to the judicial process. SAPS will continue investigating the crime to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The mass murder has reignited discussions about public safety in rural South African communities, with officials calling for increased resources to tackle crime. President Cyril Ramaphosa previously offered his condolences to the families of the victims and has emphasized the importance of swift justice.
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