A 38-year-old man died while two others were rushed to hospital after they were allegedly stabbed and hacked with a shovel by a 24-year-old man during a violent altercation in Mbikwakhe on Sunday morning.
The incident reportedly occurred at around 5:30am.
According to sources close to the matter, the suspect and the victims had been drinking at a local spot when an argument erupted between them.
The cause of the dispute remains unclear.
During the altercation, the suspect is alleged to have attacked the deceased and the two other men using a spade.
The deceased is said to have sustained a severe blow to the head during the assault.
Despite his injuries, he reportedly fled the scene and ran towards a nearby homestead before collapsing.
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The sources said the man was discovered at around 5:30am lying under a tree a few metres from the scene of the attack with a deep wound on his forehead.
Police were immediately contacted and responded swiftly to the scene.
They transported the body of the deceased to the mortuary, while the two other victims were rushed to the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital (RFM), where they were treated and later discharged.
Following the incident, the suspect was apprehended by the police.
Acting Chief Police Information and Communications Officer (PICO) Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni confirmed the incident.
She said Matsapha police had arrested and charged a 24-year-old man of Mbikwakhe in connection with the murder of a 38-year-old man from Velezizweni.
Mnguni added that investigations were ongoing as the two other victims involved in the incident had not yet been formally located by police.
The suspect is also expected to face two additional charges of assault to cause grievous bodily harm. He is scheduled to appear before the Matsapha Circuit Court today.
Additional Context
Police investigations are ongoing, with authorities expected to gather further statements from the injured parties. The incident highlights growing concerns around alcohol-related violence and public safety.
