The former municipal manager of Umzimkhulu Municipality, 55-year-old Zweliphansi Sikhosana, made a brief appearance in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with the 2017 murder of former ANC Youth League secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa.
Sikhosana faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and firearm-related offenses. Magaqa was shot in an ambush in July 2017 and succumbed to his injuries months later in hospital.
The arrest comes weeks after hitman Sibusiso Ncengwa was sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to his role in the killing. The case against Sikhosana has been postponed to 1 August 2025 to allow the defense to appoint legal representation for a bail application.
Police Praise Task Team’s Progress
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda commended the Political Killings Task Team for their efforts in uncovering evidence linked to politically motivated crimes.
“We appreciate the work of the political killings task team, which has been finding evidence linking to cases that are politically related,” Netshiunda said. “The team is there to ensure that those who kill others for political reasons are taken to book. When we see that justice is being served, we are pleased.”
Sikhosana’s charges also include unlawful possession of ammunition and defeating the administration of justice. The case has drawn significant attention due to its political undertones and the high-profile nature of Magaqa’s assassination.
The matter will return to court on 1 August 2025 for further proceedings.
