The Mayor of uMfolozi Municipality, Councillor Xolani Bhengu, has expressed concern over the ongoing rise in murder cases in Ward 08, Mbabe.
Mayor Bhengu made this statement on Monday, 11 August 2025, during a visit to the Mthiyane family in the ward to offer condolences following the discovery of the decomposed body of Khethokuhle Ncube (16).
Khethokuhle, who was in Grade 09 at Gome High School, had been missing for seven days when his body was found near his home, along with his cellphone.
Mayor Bhengu, who was accompanied by municipal councillors, pastors, and the Municipal Manager, Mr Fred Mazibuko, said the municipality strongly condemns this ongoing tragedy in the ward, particularly as the incident occurred during Women’s Month. He noted that in some of the cases, the victims had been in relationships with alleged perpetrators, adding that alcohol may be a contributing factor, and there is also suspicion of drug involvement.
He stated that he has already reported the matter to the KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Mr Thami Ntuli, as the Department of Community Safety falls under his office. He added that there is a need to closely monitor the Mbonambi Police Station to see how it can be supported, especially since, despite there being more than ten such cases, very few arrests have been made.
Thanking the Mayor and the municipal leadership on behalf of the family, Mrs Angel Mkhwanazi, expressed gratitude that the body was found so that it could be laid to rest.
She also thanked the Mayor, Municipal leadership and the local ward councillor, Deputy Mayor Councillor Timothy Biyela, for standing with the family during this time.