Political Killings Task Team arrests suspect in the murder of ANC leader Sindiso Magaqa

THE much talked about, especially in recent weeks, Political Killings Task Team, has struck again.

This time, the unit made an arrest in the matter related to the killing of the former ANC Youth League Secretary General, Sindiso Magaqa.

Yesterday, the suspect, a 55-year-old former senior official at the Umzimkhulu Local Municipality, was apprehended by the team in Malvern, Durban, by the team.

The latest arrest in the high-profile murder matter has been appreciated by the ANCYL's current generation of leaders. 

It emphasised the pervasive and entrenched nature of corruption within government institutions, according to Collins Malatji, the president of the Youth League.

He believed that Magaqa's death was the handiwork of greedy politicians, who ultimately had taken out one of their own.

“As the ANC Youth League, we are very happy with the arrest.

"This goes to show how deep the root of corruption is,” Malatji stated.

“Whenever we attempt to expose these powerful politicians, they resort to threats and even violence,” he said.

Athlenda Mathe, a spokesperson for the police, confirmed that the former official had previously been arrested in 2018 alongside the late Mayor of Umzimkhulu and several other individuals, including a hitman and former police officers.

The hitman, Sbusiso Ncengwa, was recently sentenced to 25 years in prison for his role in Magaqa's murder, as well as for other offences involving attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms.

Magaqa’s brother, Dr Lwazi Magaqa, expressed relief at the news of the suspect's arrest, and stated that the family hoped this development would shed light on the true mastermind behind the heinous act.

“We are happy that he has finally been arrested; however, we will give our full comment after his appearance tomorrow,” he said.

Andile Lungisa, former Deputy President of the Youth League, insisted that all those involved in Magaqa's murder must face justice without favour.

He expressed a sense of duty to ensure that anyone who played a part in this tragedy would suffer the consequences of their actions. “Criminality needs to be fought without mercy,” Lungisa asserted.

“Magaqa had a spirit of passion in his conviction that was essential in the struggle for our people's freedom.”

Magaqa, a beloved figure within the organisation and beyond, was known for his commitment to social justice and active engagement in the fight for equality.

His untimely death on September 13, 2017, after a brutal attack, left a void in the hearts of many, Lungisa said.

“He was part of the youth that led a spirited campaign for our heroic struggles. A loyal member of the ANC, his loss is felt deeply by all who knew him.”

The task force, established in 2018, was created specifically to investigate political killings and has recently expanded its mandate to include the investigation of assassinations targeting political leaders.

The prime suspect's confession revealed that he had been paid over half a million rand for the murder, confirming the calculated nature of the killing.

As the investigation progressed and legal proceedings unfolded, the ANC Youth League, along with Magaqa's family, remained resolute in their pursuit of justice for a leader whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Additional Reporting: Willem Phungula

DAILY NEWS