KZN councillor to appear in court for 2015 blast at rival's house

Published Oct 30, 2017

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Johannesburg  –  A 36-year-old councillor is expected to appear at the Madadeni Magistrate's Court, in Newcastle, on Monday in connection with a bomb blast at another councillor's house, who was thought to be a potential whistle-blower against corruption.

Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said the councillor was arrested on Saturday by the "political task team" for the 2015 bomb blast.

Mulaudzi said the "political task team", which is led by the Hawks and being assisted by the South African Police Service detectives, crime intelligence and other specialised units, arrested the suspect from Amajuba District Municipality for allegedly conspiring and orchestrating the bombing of a house belonging to a 46-year-old councillor in Newcastle two years ago.

 

"It is alleged in 2015, unknown suspects allegedly planted explosives, which later discharged and caused extensive damage.  At the time it was suspected that the explosion was caused by bad plumbing since the explosives were allegedly concealed next to the geyser," said the brigadier.

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He said no case was opened, however, in September this year the team received information linking the councillor to the bombing.

 

"It is understood that the two councillors had a fallout, also liked are allegations of undue influence and possible corruption. With that in mind the suspect conspired to slay his confidante with a view not to expose him from his alleged underground dealings," the spokesman for the Hawks said. 

"He allegedly approached potential witness not to co-operate with the probe promising them cash in return ... "

Mulaudzi said after the team nabbed the suspected bomber he was charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, defeating the ends of justice and violation of the Explosives Act.  

African News Agency

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