The KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) has officially taken over the investigation into the murder of ANC Ward 17 councillor Sbusiso “Khekhe” Khwela. Khwela was shot and killed in his office in Klaarwater, near Mariannhill, on the afternoon of 6 August 2026.
Investigation And Official Response
The suspect reportedly entered the office under the guise of a community member seeking assistance before drawing a firearm and firing multiple shots at the councillor. While the perpetrator fled the scene on foot, police have launched a province-wide manhunt to track the suspect down.
The PKTT will lead and coordinate the investigation, with PKTT detectives already on the ground to ensure that those responsible for this senseless murder are identified, arrested and brought before the courts.
Police spokesperson Althlenda Mathe confirmed the task team’s involvement to ensure a specialised focus on the case. Colonel Robert Netshiunda added that forensic teams and various units spent the hours following the shooting combing the crime scene for evidence.
Community Impact And Background
Khwela was serving his second term as an eThekwini councillor and had recently indicated he would not stand for re-election. His death has sent shockwaves through the local political landscape in a province that has historically dealt with a high volume of political violence.
The painful thing is that he died while he was in the office, while he was serving the people… We hope that the police will investigate and give us a report that is positive, of this criminal being arrested.
ANC eThekwini Region Convenor Thabani Nyawose expressed the party’s grief during a media briefing following the incident. Authorities have confirmed that the motive behind the attack remains under investigation, and they will provide further updates as the manhunt for the suspect progresses.