Five suspects arrested for several murders related to faction fights in Nongoma

Five men who are suspected to be involved in territorial feuds between KwaMusi and Onyango villages which have led to several murders were arrested during an intelligence-led operation in Nongoma on Friday afternoon, 18 October 2024.

Police officers, operating under Operation Vala UMgodi saturated both KwaMusi and Onyango villages and during the search, five suspects were arrested after they were found in possession of an R1 assault rifle, an AK 47 assault rifle, two shotguns, ammunition of various calibre of firearms and pieces of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform.

Investigations proved that the R1 rifle belongs to the SANDF and it was not reported stolen. One shotgun was reported stolen in Olievenhoutbosch, Gauteng province in February 2018, whilst the other shotgun is licensed to another person who also did not report it as stolen. Investigations are underway to locate the licensed owner and proper steps will be taken.

During the search, a 72-year-old woman was found to be in an illegal possession of a pistol which belonged to her late husband. Proper procedures for her to follow if she intended to keep the firearm were explained to her, however the woman opted to surrender the weapon to the state.

The five suspects, aged between 18 and 38 years old, are expected to appear in the Nongoma Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 21 October 2024.