The South African Police Service (SAPS) has welcomed the conviction of three men for the murder of an Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Branch Executive Committee (BEC) Secretary, Mthokozisi Sithole.
Sthembiso Nkululeko Xulu, Mduduzi Mncube and Sthabiso Mncube were convicted on Thursday in the Escourt Regional Court. The matter was postponed to 28 October 2026 for sentencing.
Sithole was shot and killed outside a tavern in Weenen on 27 January 2024.
“Following an intensive investigation by the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KwaZulu-Natal, four suspects were arrested and charged with murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition,” the police said.
The investigation also established a link between the firearm used in Sithole’s murder and another murder case, relating to the murder of Thembinkosi Manana.
Sthabiso Mncube was also charged in the Manana murder case. The two matters were prosecuted jointly.
Judgment was handed down in both matters, with the court finding three accused guilty of murder and of possession of an unlicensed firearm.
“The PKTT remains resolute in its efforts to ensure that perpetrators of political killings are identified, arrested and prosecuted, while continuing to work closely with the National Prosecuting Authority to strengthen cases brought before the courts,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za
