/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

THE KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison,
Willies Mchunu, has called on the residents of Glebe Hostel in Umlazi, Durban, to stop
the ongoing conflict which has resulted to a number of deaths and explore the route of
talks to end their differences.

Mchunu was commenting in the wake of the murder of yet another inmate, Sphamandla
Hlongwane (40) who was allegedly shot dead while standing with a friend outside
his room at the hostel on Thursday afternoon (21 May 2015).

Also on Monday (18 May 2015) 43-year-old Sipho Ndovela who was also residing at the Glebelands Hostel was shot and killed outside the Umlazi Court after he had appeared as a witness in a murder case of his friend.

Today (24 May 2015), Mchunu expressed great concerns at the developments  at the  Glebelands Hostel, urging anyone who might have any information that might lead to arrests of those responsible to come forward.

“We have also been working around the clock trying very hard to come up with solutions to put an end to this combat.

“I would also like to call on the community to give police an opportunity to work on this matter so that those responsible for this act should be brought to book.

“I am assured that members of the police are working around the clock to ensure that those who are responsible for these cold-blooded murders are brought to justice as soon as possible,” said Mchunu.

He added that a multi-disciplinary team from SAPS, Department of Community Safety and Liaison was already working at the hostel to end this conflict. This plan includes bringing to the table the parties in conflict with a view of brokering a lasting peace.

Locals have been encouraged to work with these teams so that this conflict could be brought to an end.

Mchunu also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

Issued by KZN Transport, Community Safety and Liaison