Police in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng made a breakthrough when they arrested a suspect wanted for a double murder committed last month.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda says the alleged murderer and extortionist Linda Hlongwa, known as 'Putin' or ‘Mjinja’, the self-proclaimed lion, was arrested in Midrand on Tuesday.
He says Hlongwa first appeared in court in July 2020 on a firearm-related charge but then went on the run for five years.
"Putin" is believed to have been extorting money from scholar transport owners, tuckshop owners, and local taxi drivers in the area.
Police have urged anyone who fell victim to Hlongwa to open a case at their nearest police station.
The accused will also be charged for allegedly killing his girlfriend and her mother in Pinetown last month.
