Police have launched a manhunt for Mabuza’s murderers

Police have not yet arrested anyone in connection with the murder of Petros Sidney Mabuza (57), also known by the aliases “Mr Big” or “Mshengu. Mabuza was previously arrested on several allegations related to rhino poaching.

POLICE HAVE LAUNCHED A MANHUNT 

Brigadier Leonard Hlathi, police spokesperson said police in Mpumalanga are still looking for suspects and have launched a manhunt. 

Petros Sidney Mabuza, also known by the aliases “Mr Big” or “Mshengu”, was gunned down in broad daylight in Hazyview, Mpumalanga on Thursday afternoon, 17 June.

Footage of the incident has since surfaced online. Mabuza was suspected of being involved in rhino poaching and other criminal offences, including murder, in the province.

“The deceased was previously arrested on several allegations related to rhino poaching cases which are currently before the High Court.”

ALSO READ: WATCH: Suspected poaching boss Petros ‘Mr Big’ Mabuza gunned down in Hazyview

SEVERAL SHOTS WERE FIRED AT THE SUSPECT

According to Hlathi the deceased was sitting in his Ford Ranger double cab bakkie next to a shopping complex.

“A group of about three armed suspects, who were driving in a black VW Polo, fired several shots at him and then fled the scene.”

Police said the injured man was rushed to hospital thereafter. The man later succumbed to gunshot injuries.

ELDERLY WOMAN ALSO INJURED IN SHOOTING 

“During the shooting, a passer-by who is an elderly woman also became a victim of the circumstances, She was shot on her lower body and she is currently recuperating in hospital.”

Hlathi said police are investigating a murder case with an additional charge of attempted murder.  

He added that the motive for the killing is unknown at this point.

INCIDENT STRONGLY CONDEMNED 

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the police in Mpumalanga, Major General Thulani Phahla has strongly condemned the incident.

He called for the swift arrest of the suspects. 

“No one has a right to take another person’s life regardless of the reasons. We are optimistic that members of the community will share information with the police so that the perpetrators can be brought to book in an instant.”

Members of the public are urged to assist the police with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.