FILE
Eastern Cape police are on the hunt for at least three suspects involved in the murder of a prominent politician at his homestead in KwaBhaca on Monday evening.
Spokesperson Warrrant Officer Majola Nkohli says it’s alleged that two men armed with rifles stormed into the homestead of a local politician, identified as Mncedisi Gijana, 58, at Sidikidikini locality in KwaBhaca.
Nkohli says it’s further alleged that the three occupants in the house were held at gunpoint, and tied with cable ties.
“The victims were also robbed of their cellphones.
“Moments later, the two suspects were also joined by a third armed suspect,” Nkohli said in a statement.
He said the homeowner, Gijana, was not home at the time, but was accosted by the three suspects when he arrived.
“It is unknown what happened outside the house, but several gunshots were heard.
“After a while, the three victims managed to free themselves, and recovered the lifeless body of Gijana in one of the outside flats.
"It was later realised that the suspects stole few items such as bank cards, house keys and a family vehicle, which was found abandoned few kilometres away,” Nkohli added.
The suspects are still at large.
A case of murder with an additional charge of house robbery was opened for further investigation.
Police are urging anyone with information that could assist with their investigation to contact the investigating team on 071 475 2292. The information may also be shared via Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
Provincial Commissioner, Lt General Nomthetheleli Mene has condemned the incident, and subsequently activated a provincial task team to track, trace and arrest the suspects. “These heinous incidents are despicable, and are disparaging to our efforts of eradicating violent crimes in the province. For this incident, we have assigned a team of seasoned investigators, who will not rest until the perpetrators are kept behind bars”, he said.
