As : Axe-Wielding Suspects on the Loose
By Dumisani Ndlovu
A chilling murder has sent shockwaves through Silobela, leaving a community reeling in horror.
In a press statement Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer, Midlands Province said on August 4, 2024, at around 8 pm, a 35-year-old man, Freeman Sibanda, was fatally struck on the head with an axe in a brutal attack that has left two suspects at large.
He added that the victim had a long-standing dispute with suspects Priority Bhebhe and Elvis Mpofu, both from Mbombela Village, where the incident occurred. The trio had worked together as artisanal miners, but their rivalry turned deadly on that fateful night.
Mahoko said Sibanda was traveling with Wiseman Mpofu and Priority Bhebhe when they met Elvis Mpofu, who sparked a confrontation with a touch on the face. The situation escalated, and Priority Bhebhe produced an axe from his jacket, striking Freeman on the head.
The suspects fled, leaving Freeman to succumb to his injuries on the way to Silobela District Hospital.
“We are appealing for information to aid in the arrest of Priority Bhebhe and Elvis Mpofu. Anyone with information is urged to come forward to help bring peace and justice to Silobela,” Mahoko said.
