A Durban-based manager accused of kidnapping and murdering his subordinate, Ayabonga Mjilo, has appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Mfanafuthi Kunene, faces charges of kidnapping and murder following the gruesome discovery of Mjilo’s body buried in a shallow grave in his backyard in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal.
#### The Disappearance of Ayabonga Mjilo
Mjilo, a 21-year-old employee of Kunene, was last seen alive on December 23, 2024, when the two reportedly left Capello restaurant in Umhlanga together. When Mjilo failed to return home, her family reported her missing, prompting the police to open a kidnapping case.
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, investigations revealed that an argument broke out between Mjilo and Kunene, leading to her alleged strangulation. The suspect reportedly buried her body in his backyard to conceal the crime.
#### Arrest and Court Appearance
Kunene was apprehended on January 4, 2025, after police linked him to Mjilo’s disappearance. During his court appearance on January 6, Kunene showed visible injuries and walked with a noticeable limp. He chose to abandon his bail application, opting to remain in custody until his next court date, scheduled for February 26, 2025.
#### A Community in Shock
The revelation has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing their grief and outrage. Mjilo, described as a bright and ambitious young woman, was an employee at the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company Nutun and recently worked at Webhelp.
#### Related Incidents
In a separate case, a man appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on January 3, 2025, charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Zanele Dibaza. Reports state that Baxolise Vuso allegedly assaulted Dibaza on New Year’s Day at his home in Qunu township, Chatty. Dibaza succumbed to her injuries shortly after being rushed to the hospital.
These incidents highlight the disturbing trend of gender-based violence in South Africa, which remains a pressing issue. Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to help prevent further tragedies.
#### A Call for Justice
As the case progresses, Mjilo’s family and the public are calling for justice for the young woman whose life was tragically cut short. This case has reignited discussions on the safety of women in South Africa and the need for stringent measures to combat violent crimes.