Kunene’s arrest followed the discovery of Mjilo’s body at his residence in Amaotana on Saturday. According to Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for KwaZulu-Natal police, the two were seen leaving a restaurant in uMhlanga together on Christmas Day. When Mjilo failed to return home, her family filed a missing persons report at Greenwood Park Police Station, leading to the investigation.

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“A thorough investigation identified the last person seen with the missing woman,” stated Colonel Netshiunda. “It was revealed that the accused, her former supervisor, took her to his home where a dispute occurred, resulting in him allegedly strangling her and burying her body in his yard.”

Family’s Heartbreak Over Ayabonga Mjilo

The family of Mjilo attended the court session alongside KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, expressing their sorrow over the devastating loss. Mthi Mjilo spoke to the court, highlighting their continuing grief, noting the recent murders of seven relatives in Highflats just months ago.

“It’s truly heartbreaking that each time we gather as a family, it’s because another relative has been murdered,” Mthi lamented. “We seek justice for Ayabonga, but we fear whether it will be served since sometimes the evidence isn’t enough in court.”

Nontobeko Mjilo, Ayabonga’s sister, expressed her appreciation to the police for their dedication, stating, “Greenwood Park SAPS worked tirelessly to find my sister. While we are devastated that she was not found alive, we now hope the legal system will deliver justice.”

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Calls for Combating Gender-Based Violence

The murder of Mjilo has reignited outrage regarding gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in KwaZulu-Natal. Premier Ntuli condemned the violence and urged families and communities to unite in addressing this crisis.

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“Gender-based violence has tainted our province, creating an unsafe space for both locals and visitors. It requires a collective response from all citizens to condemn these inhumane actions,” emphasized Ntuli.

Kunene is facing charges of murder, kidnapping, and obstructing justice. As the investigation moves forward and public interest grows, attention is on the judicial system to ensure accountability in this tragic case.

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