Manguzi tragedy: KZN Premier Thami Ntuli outraged by murder of three children

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has condemned the murder of three minor children in the Lulwane (Sikhemelele) area of Manguzi in the uMkhanyakude District Municipality in northern KZN.

He described the incident as “deeply disturbing, senseless, and an unforgivable violation of the sanctity of life”.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the children Kwanele Gumede, 15, Amanda Khumalo, 9, and Ayabonga Khumalo, 7, were killed on the night of 30 January 2026.

The suspect has been arrested and appeared in court on Monday.

In a statement, Premier Ntuli expressed “profound shock, sorrow, and outrage” at the killings.

The Premier said the murder of innocent children, particularly within their own home, was especially distressing. Children depend on adults “for love, safety, and protection, and the family environment should be their safest space.”

He conveyed his “deepest condolences to the family of the victims, the affected community, and all those traumatised by this horrific loss.” 

He called for “a thorough and expedited investigation to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrator is held fully accountable.”

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government said it will work through relevant departments, including Social Development and Community Safety and Liaison, to ensure that psychosocial support and trauma counselling are provided to the affected family and community.

Reaffirming the province’s commitment to child protection, Premier Ntuli called on families, communities, faith-based organisations, and civil society to work together to safeguard children and confront all forms of violence.

He reiterated that the “safety, dignity, and wellbeing of children remain a top priority for the provincial government,” adding that decisive action will continue to be taken to combat violence in all its forms.

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