According to the City of uMhlathuze spokesperson, Bongani Gina, authorities apprehended and arrested a male suspect in the vicinity of a local Bed and Breakfast outlet. He had sought refuge within its premises.
Mayor Xolani Ngwezi, condemned the gruesome kidnapping and murder of the seven-year-old. Gina stated that “the mayor denounces this horrific incident, which exacerbates the ongoing issue of gender-based violence against women and children. This is especially concerning as we transition from Men's Month into Women's Month.
“Mayor Ngwezi believes that men should be protectors of women and children, not perpetrators of violence against them.”
During the visit to the Khumalo family, Ngwezi said that it was unfortunate that this incident happened in their area.
“We call upon all men to protect women and children as it is something that is very old in our tradition. especially in the Zulu culture.
“We also appreciate the intervention which was brought by the law enforcement agencies, the local police forum, the community… in helping the police to apprehend the suspect. We are happy that the suspect is already in custody of the police.”
In order to facilitate the magistrate's handling of the case, he urged the law enforcement to treat it with the utmost care and sensitivity.
“We appreciate the announcement by the Premier of KwaZulu Natal that this area has been identified as one of the areas that has high crime statistics regarding gender-based violence. We also call upon the premier to deploy enough resources to assist our local police stations,” said Ngwezi.
The Mercury