The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal says it is “devastated” by the brutal assassination of Ward 17 councillor Sbusiso Cedric “Khekhe” Khwela, who was gunned down while serving residents at his office in Klaarwater on Thursday afternoon.
Describing the killing as a “barbaric act”, the party said the long-serving public representative was shot while carrying out community work, robbing Ward 17, Klaarwater, Savanna Park and surrounding communities of a dedicated public servant.
“This barbaric act has robbed the people of Ward 17, Klaarwater, Savanna Park and surrounding areas of a committed public servant whose life was dedicated to improving the lives of the communities he served,” the ANC said in a statement.
The party further described the murder as not only an attack on Khwela’s family and loved ones, but also on South Africa’s democratic institutions and communities that believe in peace, justice and service.
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, preliminary information indicates that Khwela was in his office with several community members when an unknown man arrived seeking assistance.
“The deceased reportedly went out to assist the man and the suspect drew a firearm and shot the deceased several times. He was declared dead at the scene.
“The suspect fled the scene on foot. The motive of the killing remains unknown at this stage, and a manhunt for the suspect is underway,” said Netshiunda.
Different police units spent Thursday afternoon combing the crime scene for clues and gathering evidence as detectives launched an investigation into the fatal shooting.
Strongly condemning the killing, the ANC called on law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that both the gunman and anyone who may have orchestrated the attack are brought to justice.
The party also extended its condolences to Khwela’s family, friends, comrades, the people of Ward 17 and the eThekwini caucus, saying his legacy of public service would live on through the lives he touched.
Police have appealed to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The motive for the killing remains under investigation.
