DA candidate killed days before elections

A Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor and ward candidate has been shot dead at his home in Zamdela, Free State, just days before the local government elections.

Thulani Mbana, the party’s Ward 14 candidate in Metsimaholo, was killed in Taylor Park on Monday night, 26 October.

According to police, two unidentified men approached his residence at approximately 21:40 and called out to him.

As Mbana approached, one of the men allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot him several times at close range.

Both suspects fled on foot. Mbana died at the scene.

POLICE HUNT FOR KILLERS

Free State police commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia has assigned the Zamdela Trio Task Team and Serious Organised Crime Unit to investigate the murder.

The motive remains unknown, and police have not established whether the attack was politically motivated.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information that could compromise the investigation.

ELECTION SECURITY UNDER SPOTLIGHT

Mbana’s murder comes ahead of the local government elections on Wednesday, 4 November.

The Free State Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJOINTS) says it is ready to coordinate security operations across the province.

Lesia warned that police would not tolerate violence or criminal activity and pledged to protect communities during the election period.

Anyone with information can contact investigating officer Captain Sandile Dladla on 082 453 6245 or 073 226 6788.

Anonymous tip-offs can also be submitted through Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App..