KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has strongly condemned the brutal and senseless killing of Ms. Sphindiwe Hlongwa, who was allegedly raped and murdered in the early hours of the morning. Reports indicate that she was found strangled to death, with visible signs of assault and a swollen face, after being dropped off by a Renault Kwid in that state.

The incident happened at Mkhazini Area near KwaMakhutha Township.

Premier Ntuli has described this act as “barbaric, inhumane, and an attack on the dignity and safety of women” in the province.

“We are deeply horrified by yet another grotesque act of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay,” said Premier Ntuli.

“This is one of many murders linked to the scourge of Gender Based Violence and Femicide in our province. “However, working with the SAPS under our Police Commissioner Lt. General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi we will make sure to treat every case as an emergency. One case at a time, we will never give up and we will do everything to defeat GBVF,” said the Premier.

Anyone with information related to this crime is urged to come forward and assist the police by contacting Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.

This coming Saturday, 08 March 2025, the Premier will lead a delegation of the members of the executive council to commemorate the International Women's Month at KwaMashu Civic Centre.

For Media Enquiries, Please Contact:

Mr. Bongani Gina
Head of Provincial Government Communications
071 217 3037

Mr. Lindelani Mbatha
Media Liaison Officer
061 499 0774

Sindiswa Hlophe
Department of Community Safety and Liaison
082 045 8361

Issued by the Office of the Premier

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government