Robin-Lee Francke|Published
A member of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Free State has been gunned down a week before the local government elections.
Councillor Michael Thulani Mbana was killed during a shooting incident in Taylor Park in Zamdela on Monday.
Mbana was a candidate for Ward 14.
The provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Thandi Mbambo, said the incident took place before 10pm after he was lured out of his home.
Shot at close range
“It is alleged that at approximately 9.40pm, the deceased was at his residence when two unknown males approached him and called out to him. When he approached them, one of the suspects allegedly produced a firearm and shot him several times at close range. The suspects subsequently fled the scene on foot. Mr Mbana sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene,” Mbambo said.
The Free State Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, activated the Zamdela Trio Task Team and Serious Organised Crime Unit to investigate the murder, trace and apprehend the suspects, and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police said the motive for the killing has not yet been established, and it has not been confirmed whether the incident is politically motivated. All possible leads are being pursued as part of the ongoing investigation.
“The SAPS appeals to members of the community who may have witnessed the incident or have information that could assist in identifying and tracing the suspects to come forward.
The public is further cautioned against spreading unverified information or speculation on social media, as this could compromise the investigation,” Mbamba said.
Anyone with information may contact the investigation officer, Captain Sandile Dladla, at 082 453 6245 or 073 226 6788, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or submit information anonymously through the MySAPS App.
Champion of his community
Leader of the DA in the Free State, Roy Jankielsohn, said Mbana was also the Metsimaholo Caucus Leader.
“Thulani joined the DA in 2017 and dedicated himself to political activism, community service and building the party’s grassroots structures. As Caucus Leader, through election campaigns and by-elections, and in his work as a councillor and MMC for Spatial Planning and Human Settlements while the DA was in government in Metsimaholo, he remained committed to representing the people of Metsimaholo and ensuring their voices were heard,” Jankielsohn said.
He said Mbana’s passing is a devastating loss to the DA and the community he served tirelessly.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. Thulani will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and a champion of his community,” Jankielsohn said.
IOL