A chilling scene unfolded in Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga, on Friday morning when three men were ambushed and killed in a hail of bullets inside a luxury Mercedes-Benz. The execution-style shooting, which took place around 11am near a hospital, has left the community in shock and police scrambling for answers.
Provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, confirmed the gruesome incident. According to Mdhluli, officers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire. On arrival, they found the vehicle riddled with bullet holes and three men inside with multiple gunshot wounds.
“Two of the victims were certified dead at the scene by paramedics, while the third succumbed to his injuries after being transported to hospital. A large number of cartridges were collected at the scene,” said Mdhluli.
The Mercedes-Benz bore the scars of a violent and calculated attack, suggesting that the assailants intended to ensure none of the occupants survived. The motive behind the killings remains unclear, and no arrests have been made at this stage.
Police Mobilise Task Team
In response to the brutal slaying, acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, announced that a dedicated task team of experts has been assembled to investigate. The team will focus on identifying the shooters, their motives, and any potential links to organised crime or gang-related activities in the area.
“The team is working tirelessly to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly brought to justice. We strongly believe that our communities hold valuable information that can assist us in solving this case,” Mkhwanazi said.
The general also appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information to come forward. Citizens can provide tips anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline (08600 10111) or via the MYSAPS app. Police have assured the public that all information will be treated as confidential.
Fear Grips Mkhuhlu Residents
The brazen daylight shooting has left residents of Mkhuhlu shaken. Many have expressed fears that violent crime in the region is spiralling out of control. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the gunfire erupted, sending pedestrians and motorists scrambling for safety near the hospital.
Community leaders have called on law enforcement to intensify patrols and ensure visible policing in crime hotspots. “We cannot live in fear every day,” one resident said. “Our town is small, yet criminals act with impunity. We need stronger police presence and immediate arrests.”
Rising Concerns Over Violent Crime
Mpumalanga has witnessed a surge in violent crimes in recent months, with several shootings linked to gang rivalries, contract killings, and disputes over illegal dealings. The attack in Mkhuhlu fits a worrying pattern of targeted killings carried out with military-style precision.
While police investigations continue, the families of the slain men are left devastated, demanding justice and answers. The identities of the victims have not yet been officially released, as police are still in the process of notifying relatives.
For now, the community of Mkhuhlu waits anxiously, hoping that the police task team will succeed in tracking down those responsible for this brutal triple murder.
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