Durban - IFP councillor Sihle Menzi Biyela, 37, was shot dead in KwaMashu on Monday night despite a strong police presence in the area.
Police spokesman Colonel Vincent Mdunge could not confirm if Biyela’s death was politically motivated.
Last month, the area was a hot spot for political killings, with two IFP members and an NFP member losing their lives.
There was a strong police presence in the area to curb violence and sustain peace and stability, Mdunge said. He said no arrests had been made and they were investigating a case of murder.
Mdunge said: “There is no political link until the preliminary investigation report is completed. The motive for the killing is unknown at this stage. It could be criminal or politically motivated.”
The IFP leadership in KwaZulu-Natal has expressed shock at yet another killing of one of its members.
After Biyela was shot, about 400 people gathered at the scene and sang while the man’s relatives cried.
Several armed police officers secured the scene while detectives examined it.
Three cartridge casings were found next to his body while at least four gunshot wounds were clearly visible as forensic detectives examined his body.
This area, home to several hostels and informal settlements, has been racked by violence between the IFP and NFP in recent weeks.
Mdu Nkosi, the IFP’s eThekwini caucus chairman, said it was shocking that the shooting had taken place amid a heavy police presence.
He said he strongly believed the killing was politically motivated.
“This comrade was killed even after political parties committed to peace. We believe Biyela’s killing was politically motivated because he was our party’s activist and block chairman.
“Maybe the plan is to remove leaders ahead of the by-elections,” said Nkosi.
He urged police to investigate fully and bring the perpetrators to book.
“Police are telling us to calm down and yet we are attending funeral services of our comrades almost every weekend. I hope that police make arrests soon,” Nkosi said. - Daily News