DailySun
The person accused of abducting and murdering 23-year-old Ayabonga Mjilo, identified as 37-year-old Mfanafuthi Kunene, has been ordered to remain in custody following his court appearance at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Kunene, who previously worked as a call centre manager in uMhlanga, will remain in custody until his next hearing scheduled for February 26, as investigations continue.
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Defendant Withdraws Bail Application
A visibly injured Kunene appeared before Magistrate Sicelo Zuma in Court 11, represented by Legal Aid attorney Ntando Cele. He expressed his decision to withdraw his bail application. State Prosecutor Desiree Boyang Mlondo requested additional time to finalize witness testimonies and DNA analysis.
Kunene’s arrest followed the discovery of Mjilo’s body at his Amaotana residence on Saturday. Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for KwaZulu-Natal police, remarked that the two had been seen leaving a restaurant in uMhlanga together on Christmas Day. When Mjilo failed to return home, her family reported her missing at Greenwood Park Police Station, initiating an investigation.
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“A thorough investigation determined the identity of the last individual seen with the missing woman,” stated Colonel Netshiunda. “It became evident that the accused, her former supervisor, took her to his house where an argument occurred, leading him to allegedly strangle her and subsequently bury her remains in his yard.”
Heartbreak for Ayabonga Mjilo’s Family
The Mjilo family, present in court alongside KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, expressed their sorrow over the tragic loss. Mthi Mjilo, speaking to the court, highlighted their ongoing grief, recalling the recent murders of seven family members in Highflats just months ago.
“It’s devastating to see our family brought together time and again because of yet another murdered relative,” Mthi lamented. “We seek justice for Ayabonga, but we fear whether it will be granted, as sometimes clear evidence fails to convince in court.”
Nontobeko Mjilo, Ayabonga’s sister, voiced her appreciation to the police for their dedication, stating, “Greenwood Park SAPS worked tirelessly to find my sister. Although we are heartbroken that she was not found alive, we now hope that the legal system will deliver justice.”
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Demands for Action Against Gender-Based Violence
The murder of Mjilo has reignited public outrage regarding gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in KwaZulu-Natal. Premier Ntuli condemned the violence and urged families and communities to unite in addressing this pervasive issue.
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“Gender-based violence has tainted our province, creating an unsafe atmosphere for both residents and visitors. It calls for collective action from all citizens to denounce these unconscionable acts,” stressed Ntuli.
Kunene faces charges of murder, kidnapping, and obstruction of justice. As the investigation unfolds and the case attracts widespread public attention, the focus remains on the judicial system to ensure accountability in this tragic incident.
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