The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has extended heartfelt commendations to the Political Task Killings Task Team, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and SAPS teams across the province for their relentless efforts in tackling crime and safeguarding communities. This recognition follows a series of recent, high-impact, intelligence-led police operations that underscore the SAPS’s unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and community safety.
Key Operations Commended Include:
Major Arrest in Sindiso Magaqa Murder Case
In a significant breakthrough, police this week arrested Stanley Skhosana, the former municipal manager of the uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, in connection with the 2017 murder of former ANC councillor Sindiso Magaqa. Skhosana’s arrest, executed by the SAPS Political Task Killings Task Team, represents a major development in a case that drew national attention and renewed calls for justice in politically motivated killings.
Arrests in the DA Councillor Nhlayenza Mdlovu Murder Case
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the 2023 murder of Democratic Alliance (DA) Councillor Nhlayenza Mdlovu, who also served as Chief Whip in the uMngeni Local Municipality. This is a substantial step toward solving one of the most high-profile political killings in the province.
Two Arrested in Murder of KwaDukuza Municipal Official
Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of 31-year-old Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane, an official from the KwaDukuza Local Municipality, whose body was discovered inside her vehicle along Zinkwazi Link Road in the early hours of the morning at the end of June. Mashabane had sustained gunshot wounds to the head.
The arrest follows an intensive investigation led by KwaDukuza police detectives, in partnership with a private security firm, which led to the arrest of Mashabane’s husband. Further investigation connected a second suspect to the crime, who was also successfully traced and arrested. The two men were apprehended on Wednesday, 30 July 2025.
“On behalf of the Provincial Government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I commend Provincial Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and all dedicated officers for their professionalism, resolve, and courage. These arrests are a clear message to criminals—there is no hiding place. We are reclaiming our communities and restoring the rule of law. KwaZulu-Natal will not be a sanctuary for violence, impunity, or intimidation.”-Premier Ntuli.
Premier Ntuli emphasized the Provincial Government’s continued prioritization of justice for victims of violence, particularly women, children, and political leaders targeted for their service. “We remain fully committed to ending gender-based violence, political killings, and all other forms of violent crime. There can be no true freedom while our communities live in fear. Our vision is a province where every citizen—regardless of age or gender, can walk freely in peace, dignity, and safety.”
Call for Community Collaboration
Premier Ntuli called on citizens to stand united with law enforcement and play an active role in building safer communities.
“We urge all citizens to report suspicious activity, cooperate with investigations, and support our police. Together, we can defeat crime, break the cycle of violence, and build a KwaZulu-Natal rooted in peace, justice, and unity.”
For further information, please contact:
Mr. Bongani Gina
Head of Provincial Government Communications
Contact: 071 217 3037
Mr. Lindelani Mbatha
Media Liaison Officer
Contact: 061 499 0774
+27 82 392 3135
ISSUED BY KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT