Election Day killer appears in court
KwaDukuza Mayor Ricardo Mthembu, welcomes swift action taken by Police in the arrest of a Lindelani man who allegedly shot and killed a member of the African National Congress (ANC) on Election Day, 07 May 2014.
Ward 05 ANC volunteer, Thandi Nuh Mhlongo (30) was shot and killed at the ANC information desk, outside the Lindelani Voting Station on Election night.
The suspect, Dumisani Nxumalo was apprehended by the KwaDukuza Special Investigating Unit in Pongolo, north of KwaZulu Natal and made his first appearance at the KwaDukuza Regional Court on Monday.
The case was adjourned until 19 May 2014 for his legal representation and bail application.
Mthembu has condemned the killing, expressing shock and disappointment saying, whoever is responsible for this scandalous deed must face the full might of the justice system as such action shows blatant disregard for the law and democracy.
'We have learned with great shock and disappointment of the shooting and killing of a member of a political organization on Election Day, we are saddened by this senseless and unexpected killing. This cold blood murder has instilled fear and unwarranted instability in the minds of people in the community of Lindelani, this is unacceptable,' he said.
Mayor Mthembu condemned the killing saying, violence begets violence. But has welcomed the 'swift break-through' made by the police saying that the arrest comes as a relief.
‘We condemn this without reservation, the swift arrest made by the police is commendable. We are certain that this case will bring about a sense of closure to the family of the bereaved, the community of Lindelani and to the ruling party,'.
He urged the community to exercise order and restrain while the justice system takes its full course.
'We urge the people of Lindelani to observe calm and restraint. We are confident that a harsh sentence will be imposed upon the suspect if he is proven guilty by the court of law,' said Mthembu.
Scores of ANC die-hards on Monday, sang party songs outside the court building, voicing their anger anddisappointment.
Mthembu, the ANC Greater KwaDukuza Regional leadership and supporters paid a visit to the believed family in Lindelani to extend their words of condolences.
The memorial service will be held at Lindelani Community Hall on Thursday, 15 May 2014, starting at 14:00
The funeral service will take place in Lindelani Sportsfield on Saturday, 17 May 2014.
Statement issued by Bonginkosi Nhaca - KwaDukuza Media Liaison Officer, KwaZulu-Natal, May 13 2014
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