KZN Premier Hails Police Work in Political Killings and GBV Cases

The Premier’s commendation comes in the wake of several high-profile arrests made by the South African Police Service (SAPS), especially by the dedicated Political Task Killings Task Team.

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has applauded the tireless work of law enforcement agencies following a series of high-impact arrests that have shaken the province’s underworld of political violence and gender-based crime. These developments underscore the provincial government’s resolve to root out violence and restore public confidence in the rule of law.

Major Arrests in Politically Motivated Murders

The Premier’s commendation comes in the wake of several high-profile arrests made by the South African Police Service (SAPS), especially by the dedicated Political Task Killings Task Team. Most notable among these is the arrest of Stanley Skhosana, former municipal manager of uMzimkhulu Local Municipality. Skhosana was detained in connection with the 2017 assassination of Sindiso Magaqa, a former African National Congress (ANC) councillor and a vocal anti-corruption advocate.

Magaqa’s murder, which occurred amidst a wave of political killings in KZN, sent shockwaves through South Africa and intensified demands for justice and an end to impunity. Premier Ntuli hailed this arrest as a “major development in a case that drew national attention and renewed calls for justice in politically motivated killings.”

In another landmark move, SAPS also apprehended two suspects linked to the 2023 assassination of Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor and uMngeni Local Municipality Chief Whip, Nhlayenza Mdlovu. These breakthroughs are seen as crucial steps toward resolving politically charged crimes that have long plagued the province.

Justice for Gender-Based Violence Victims

Law enforcement’s recent successes are not limited to political violence. Detectives from KwaDukuza, in partnership with a private security firm, also cracked the case surrounding the murder of Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane—a 31-year-old official from KwaDukuza Local Municipality, who was found dead in her vehicle in June 2025. Mashabane had suffered fatal gunshot wounds to the head along Zinkwazi Link Road.

Investigations led to the arrest of Mashabane’s husband and a second accomplice on 30 July 2025, demonstrating the authorities’ unwavering commitment to tackling gender-based violence (GBV). These arrests, Premier Ntuli stressed, reinforce the province’s determination to deliver justice to women and children, who are often the most vulnerable in society.

Professionalism and Courage Recognized

Premier Ntuli extended praise to Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and the entire SAPS team for their dedication, resolve, and courage in pursuing justice under challenging circumstances.

“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,” Ntuli declared.

Government’s Vision: Safe Communities for All

The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing justice, not only for high-profile political cases but also for everyday citizens—particularly women and children—who fall victim to crime and violence. “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,” he said.

Call to Action: Citizen Engagement in Crime Prevention

Ntuli called upon all citizens to take an active role in community safety by supporting law enforcement, reporting suspicious activities, and cooperating fully with investigations. He emphasized that the fight against crime is a collective responsibility, requiring unity and determination from both authorities and residents.

“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,” the Premier concluded.

The Broader Challenge: A Path Forward

KwaZulu-Natal has long struggled with the scourge of political violence, organized crime, and GBV. Recent high-profile arrests represent more than just individual victories—they are vital steps toward building a province where justice prevails, and every person, regardless of their position or gender, is protected by the law. As the province looks ahead, the Premier’s message is clear: sustained collaboration between government, law enforcement, and communities is the key to lasting peace and safety.