Celani Sikhakhane
The suspect linked to the killing of traditional leader Inkosi Hlanganani Cameron Biyela last year, has been killed during a police shootout at the church he was hiding in.
The suspect went into hiding following the brutal murder of Biyela, chairperson of the House of Traditional Leadership at King Cetshwayo District, at his Dlangubo homestead in Mpangeni last year.
Following a tip, a team of detectives tracked down the murder suspect and his two accomplices to a local church in Matchana in Ngwelezane, outside Empangeni.
“Upon arrival at the said place, police were met by a hail of bullets coming from the church building,” said police spokesperson Colonel Nqobile Gwala.
Bullets flew across the church as a shootout broke out.
“A gun battle ensued and one of suspects believed to be in his thirties was fatally wounded,” said Colonel Gwala.
After the fight between police and suspects, the police found a gun on the suspect believed to be the one that was used to murder Biyela.
The two remaining suspects were arrested at the scene.
The murder of Inkosi Biyela sparked outrage from the traditional leaders, who called on the government to do more to protect them.
Last week, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala announced the formation of a task team that will work with the SAPS to combat the killing of traditional leaders.
It has also been revealed that in most cases traditional leaders, in particular Amakhosi and Izinduna, are killed because of family disputes over their salaries.
Inkosi Biyela was attacked and killed by four men at his home while opening the door of his rondavel.
Image source: Tabloid News
