On 24 January 2020, two friends decided to take a trip to Lower Shayamoya in Ntabamhlophe near Estcourt travelling in a vehicle full of goats when gunshots were heard emanating from the vehicle. 40 Year old Nhlanhla Hlela was heard screaming for help and was found bleeding on the upper part of his body.
The people who were at the vicinity came to his rescue and he was transported to hospital for medical attention.
The police received a report of the shooting and proceeded to the hospital where Hlela informed them that while they were travelling in their vehicle with his 22 year old friend an argument broke out and the friend shot him before fleeing the scene on foot.
Hlela later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. A murder case was opened at Ntabamhlophe police station for investigation. The suspect left the area when he heard that his friend died and the police were looking for him. The goats were suspected to be stolen from Ladysmith and surroundings areas.
On 5 February 2020, in the afternoon, Ntabamhlophe Detectives made a breakthrough when they arrested the suspect in Newcastle where he was found hiding. He was charged with murder and is set to appear at the Estcourt Magistrates Court.
Detectives are confident that the suspect will be linked to other cases.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula commended Ntabamhlophe detectives for their perseverance in bring the suspect to book.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
