Celani Sikhakhane brings the latest news from Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Umlalazi – Mayor Queen Xulu has called on women to break free from toxic relationships and shatter the cycle of gender-based violence (GBV). This urgent call comes after the horrific murder of 31-year-old Nokubonga Mahaye in Sunnydale Ward 11 at Umlalazi. Mahaye’s long-term boyfriend allegedly beat her to death with a plank in which razor-sharp nails were embedded. According to family members, the couple’s relationship was marred by alcohol abuse, with visible signs of violence evident in their RDP home, which had broken windows and doors. Adding to the tragedy, the offender allegedly destroyed Mahaye’s identity document, delaying her funeral.

Durban – KZN Premier Thami Ntuli stood with the family of 23-year-old Ayabonga Mjilo, who was kidnapped and murdered, on Monday when the accused – her 37-year-old boyfriend – appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court. Mfanafuthi Kunene, manager at Cappelos Club in uMhlanga north of Durban, appeared in front of the packed courthouse with bruises on his face. Ayabonga was found in Maoti in a shallow grave in the backyard of Kunene’s home after she disappeared on Christmas day. The case was postponed to 26 February and Kunene will remain in custody.

Pictured above: Mfanafuthi Kunene appeared in the Durban Magistrates Court on a murder and kidnapping charge of his girlfriend Ayabonga Mjilo.

Source : KZN Premier