A spokesperson for the Nqwena family, Simbongile Nqwena, has described Mbhashe Local Municipality PR Councilor Nomxolisi Nqwena-Maliwa (47) as a pillar for her family and someone who was always willing to help when needed.
Nqwena said that on February 17, they received a call stating they should rush to the scene at Ngcingwane Administrative Area in Dutywa.
“Nomxolisi’s body was found inside a vehicle that she was driving, in what looks like an assassination as she was shot in her head while parked in the business area,” said Nqwena.
She also served as the chairperson of the municipality’s Ethics and Members Interest Committee.
“Even now, we are still struggling to accept this pain, which is a great loss to us. She loved us and was always full of jokes. She always had some advice when needed. This is very painful, and we are unsure if it will pass soon,” Nqwena added.
Councilor speaker for Mbhashe Local Municipality, Babalwa Majavu, expressed condolences to the family.
“I am in disbelief of the sad moment of witnessing the painful death of our own who was not only a comrade and a colleague but also a close friend. On behalf of Mbhashe Local Municipality Council, I wish to send condolences to the family. Death is an enemy that knocks at the door of our loved ones. May the family find peace even in this situation and let her rest,” Majavu said.
“I call upon the law enforcement agencies to find the perpetrators behind this tragic, senseless act and ensure that justice is served so that the family may find closure.”
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana said that the SAPS Organized Crime unit is investigating a case of murder.
“The deceased allegedly was parking her car in front of her business premises to collect money. Investigation revealed that as she was busy counting the money inside the car, two unidentified male suspects confronted her, one of whom was clad in a balaclava,” said Kinana.
He added that they allegedly shot her with a firearm and escaped in a white Toyota Avanza parked a few meters from the crime scene. Kinana said it is alleged that nothing was robbed during the incident.
“Police are investigating a case of murder. No arrest has been made at this stage. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently unknown, and the police will not make any speculations in this regard.”
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, has ordered the detectives to ensure that those involved in this cold-blooded murder are found to account for their actions.
Anyone with information can contact the Idutywa Police Station or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
The funeral for the mother of four will be held at Candu locality in Dutywa on February 25, 2023.
