Couple killed with hammer in KZN, four suspects arrested

Police officers in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have arrested four suspects for allegedly murdering a couple with a hammer, before shooting them.  

South African Police Service (SAPS) officers on 19 December 2019, followed up on reports of a couple who went missing, along with their vehicle, on the night of 18 December in Bhamshela KZN. 

KZN couple found dead with four-pound hammer nearby

The team proceeded to the area and spotted the vehicle a few kilometres from the couple’s residence. The suspects sped off in the car, lost control of the vehicle and crashed. The suspects then fled into the bushes.

Police then commenced with a search for the victims and they were both found dead at Wolongo Reserve in KZN. 

They were allegedly shot and battered with a hammer. A four-pound hammer was found next to the deceased. A docket for two counts of murder was opened at the Nsuze police station for investigation.

Four suspects arrested 

Following a rigorous investigation, on 20 December 2019, police arrested four suspects aged between 25 and 46. 

The suspects were found in possession of a firearm, cash and the victim’s cellphone. They will be charged for two counts of murder, illegal possession of a firearm and possession of suspected stolen property. 

The four are due to appear in the Maphumulo Magistrate’s Court on 23 December 2019.

Ransom demanded for release of KZN couple 

It is alleged that on 18 December 2019, the wife received a call from a female to collect stokvel money that was owed to her. 

She then left with her husband but shortly afterwards their family received a call from an unknown person who demanded a ransom for their release. A case of kidnapping was opened at the Nsuze police station. 

“I wish to commend the investigation team who worked around the clock to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to book. We hope that the family will find comfort knowing that these cold-blooded killers will pay the price for their cruelty,” said the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula.

Mass shooting in separate incident  

In what was believed to be a targeted attack, a family of nine were inside their home in Mpumalanga, KZN on Wednesday 11 December 2019, when shots were fired through the windows, killing five family members, as well as a neighbour. 

Six people aged between eleven and 52 were declared dead at the scene after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, police confirmed.