Mthatha: A 64-year-old murder suspect is set to appear at the Mthatha Magistrate Court on Monday, 06 January 2025. The suspect faces charges following his arrest for the murder of a 35-year-old male victim, whom he allegedly shot in the stomach on Sunday, 29 December 2024, at approximately 20:00 in the Hillcrest residential area of Mthatha.
According to South African Police Service, the arrest was made by members attached to Madeira SAPS with assistance from the District Task Team. The incident reportedly occurred after a quarrel outside a homestead, where the suspect ultimately shot the victim. The victim was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Upon arrest, police found an unlicensed 9mm pistol with erased serial numbers, believed to be the murder weapon, in the suspect’s possession. Ballistic testing is underway to confirm if the firearm was indeed used in the crime.
The suspect is charged with murder, unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The Acting OR Tambo District Commissioner, Brigadier Vukile Ntuli, praised the police for their prompt action in capturing the suspect, emphasizing the importance of justice for the deceased and his family and friends.