The Mercury
Thobile Mnyango, left, is consoled by her friend Nelisiwe Mkhwanazi as she mourns the death of her relatives who were killed when a mob petrol bombed the homestead in Mbongolwane. Photo: SANDILE MAKHOBA
Durban – One of the survivors of last week’s massacre in Zululand, where five people were killed by a mob, was arrested during the funeral – in full view of KwaZulu-Natal Community Safety MEC Willies Mchunu.
The teen, described as “dazed” and “confused” since the murders in Mbongolwane, allegedly damaged the windows of his neighbour’s house before the funeral on Sunday.
The motive was unclear.
Police spokesman Thulani Zwane confirmed the arrest and the youth was to appear in court today, charged with malicious damage to property.
“He was arrested at the scene and allowed to stay (at the funeral) under police guard.”
Thulisile Mnyango, 59, and her children Cebile Mnyango, 21, Lungelo Mnyango, 17, Mlamuli Mnyango, 10, and Qiniso, two, were killed by people they apparently knew. The family’s property and belongings were burnt and two cows were killed.
A 14-year-old girl, Zodwa, and her father, Madoda, 65, escaped with serious injuries. A teenager also fled. They crawled out of the house during the mob’s rampage.
Khishwa Nzuza, Nkanyiso Magwaza, Samkelo Mhlongo, Njiniyela Shandu, Sibusiso Nkwanyana and Lucky Nzuza were arrested a day after the murders and have appeared in the Eshowe Magistrate’s Court.
Magistrate Pat Naicker denied them bail.
On Sunday, after the teen was handcuffed and charged, Mchunu told The Mercury the youth had visited the family whose windows he allegedly damaged had asked them to forgive him.
Mchunu promised a psychological assessment and counselling for the teenager.
He said more people would be arrested in connection with the killings.
The Mercury
