By Everson Luhanga
- Zamani Ngila Ximba, wanted for the murder of IFP Deputy Chief Whip Khethamabala Sithole, was shot dead by police during a raid in Duduza, Ekurhuleni.
- Two other suspects, Bhekukuhle and Mkhululi Sithole, were arrested days after the May shooting and remain in custody facing murder and attempted murder charges.
Police have confirmed that Zamani Ngila Ximba, who was wanted for the murder of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Deputy Chief Whip Khethamabala Sithole, has been shot dead in Duduza, Ekurhuleni.
Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said the incident took place in the early hours of Thursday, 9 October.
“Police received information that Ximba was hiding in a house in Duduza. When officers entered, he pointed what appeared to be a firearm at them. Police fired, and Ximba was shot dead,” he said.
Masondo confirmed that the firearm Ximba pointed at officers was later found to be a replica.
“The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has been informed of the incident,” he added.
Masondo said Ximba had been on the run since the killing of Sithole on 31 May 2025. Sithole and two other people were shot at a hostel in Katlehong. Sithole died on the scene while the two others survived the attack.
Following the murder, police launched an intensive investigation led by the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes unit, working closely with Crime Intelligence to trace those responsible. Within days, two suspects — 36-year-old Bhekukuhle Sithole and 33-year-old Mkhululi Sithole — were arrested and charged with murder and attempted murder.
Both men have remained in custody since their arrest. Their next court appearance is scheduled for 20 November 2025.
Investigations later identified Ximba as the third suspect, and a warrant of arrest was issued. Police continued to track his movements for months before discovering his hiding place in Duduza.
When officers closed in on the property early on Thursday morning, Ximba reportedly refused to surrender and aimed what looked like a gun at them. Officers responded with gunfire, killing him instantly.
Police said the death of Ximba marks a significant development in the case but stressed that investigations into the full circumstances of Sithole’s murder are continuing.
Sithole, who served as the IFP’s Deputy Chief Whip in Gauteng, was a well-known and respected figure in the party. His killing in May sent shockwaves through the IFP and local political circles, with party members calling for justice and tougher action against political violence in hostels.
Masondo said police will continue their efforts to bring all those involved in politically motivated crimes to justice.
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