After years of hiding and evading law enforcement, Linda Hlongwa — infamously known as “Putin” or “Mjinja” — has finally been caught. The arrest marks the end of a long pursuit of one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most wanted criminals, wanted for double murder and multiple counts of extortion.
Hlongwa was apprehended on the afternoon of 15 April in Midrand, Gauteng, in a joint operation between KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng police units. According to KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the arrest is the result of months of intelligence gathering and cooperation between law enforcement agencies, with help from the community.
“Putin has been a fugitive since July 2020, when he failed to appear in court for charges related to illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition,” said Netshiunda. “In addition to these charges, he was wanted for the brutal murders of his girlfriend and her mother, who were gunned down in Pinetown in March 2025.”
Authorities say Hlongwa was not only a murder suspect but also a menace to local communities in Mariannhill and surrounding Durban townships. He is believed to have been involved in widespread extortion operations, demanding money from scholar transport operators, spaza shop owners, and local taxi drivers.
His reign of fear allegedly disrupted the lives and businesses of many, with victims too afraid to come forward. Now, with his arrest, police are urging all victims of Hlongwa’s crimes to report to their nearest police stations and open official cases. “It’s time for justice to be served,” said Netshiunda.
Known on the streets as “the self-proclaimed lion,” Hlongwa’s capture brings a sense of relief to residents who lived in fear of his influence. Community members, some of whom provided tips that led to the arrest, are being praised for their courage and cooperation.
The arrest also follows a string of public appeals from law enforcement for information on Hlongwa’s whereabouts. His ability to stay hidden for five years raised questions about his network and the support he may have received during his time in hiding.
Though he managed to avoid justice for years, police are confident that his arrest marks a turning point. “We are committed to making sure individuals like ‘Putin’ are taken off the streets and brought before the courts to answer for their crimes,” said Netshiunda.
As investigations continue, authorities remain hopeful that more victims will come forward and more charges can be brought against Hlongwa. The arrest has been hailed as a major victory in the fight against violent crime in the province.
Hlongwa is expected to appear in court soon to face a slew of charges including double murder, firearm possession, and extortion.