Democratic Alliance councillor Michael Thulani Mbana was shot dead outside his home in Zamdela in the Free State on Monday evening.
Mbana was the DA caucus leader in Metsimaholo. He was killed in Taylor Park, a week before the local government elections.
“It is alleged that at approximately 9.40pm, the deceased was at his residence when two unknown males approached him and called out to him. When he approached them, one of the suspects allegedly produced a firearm and shot him several times at close range,” provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said.
Mbambo said the two men ran away from the scene on foot. Mbana had several gunshot wounds and died where he fell.
Free State Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia called in the Zamdela Trio Task Team and the Serious Organised Crime Unit. The teams must find and arrest the suspects and work out what happened.
Police said they do not yet know why Mbana was killed. They have not confirmed whether the murder was linked to politics. Police said they are following all possible leads.
“The SAPS appeals to members of the community who may have witnessed the incident or have information that could assist in identifying and tracing the suspects to come forward,” Mbambo said.
She also warned people not to share unchecked claims or guesses on social media. She said this could harm the investigation.
DA Free State leader Roy Jankielsohn said Mbana joined the party in 2017. He said Mbana worked hard in political activism, community service and building the party at grassroots level.
Jankielsohn said Mbana had served as the member of the mayoral committee for Spatial Planning and Human Settlements. This was while the DA was in government in Metsimaholo.
“He remained committed to representing the people of Metsimaholo and ensuring their voices were heard,” Jankielsohn said.
He said Mbana’s death was a devastating loss to the party and to the community he served.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. Thulani will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and a champion of his community,” Jankielsohn said.
Anyone with information can contact the investigating officer, Captain Sandile Dladla, on 082 453 6245 or 073 226 6788. People can also call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or send tips without giving their name on the MySAPS App.
Source: this article is based on reporting by IOL. Image: IOL. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice News desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Kgomotso Maake covers news and politics for Tzaneen Voice. Kgomotso reports on government, Parliament, municipalities, courts, crime and service delivery across South Africa, with a close eye on how national decisions reach towns like Tzaneen and the wider Limpopo province. Stories are written in plain English and focus on the facts: who made the decision, what it means, and what happens next.