Eastern Cape Police in Pursuit of Assassins after Execution of Renowned Politician

In a tragic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Eastern Cape, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is aggressively searching for at least three suspects involved in the brutal murder of Mncedisi Gijana, a distinguished local politician. The 58-year-old was found dead at his residence on Monday night, resulting in a swift reaction from law enforcement.

The drama unfolded in the ordinarily quiet area of KwaBhaca, as two armed men with rifles stormed Gijana's home in Sidikidikini location within Lubacweni around 7:30pm. Described as a targeted attack, the assailants held three occupants inside the politician's house at gunpoint, and with ruthless efficiency, bound them with cable ties. These occupants were stripped of their cellphones in a harrowing ordeal while the criminals awaited their primary target.

As the unsuspecting Gijana returned to his dwelling, he was immediately confronted, and a series of gunshots erupted. The sequence of events outside remains unclear, yet the outcome was devastatingly certain. Gijana's body was discovered by the earlier hostages, who had managed to extricate themselves, in one of the external flats of the residence.

The culprits, armed and calculated, didn't stop at murder; they pilfered bank cards, house keys, and even a family vehicle, with police later recovering the car abandoned in the vicinity. Despite the violence, the suspects have evaded capture and are currently at large.

A dual charge of murder and house robbery stands against these unidentified individuals, with SAPS initiating a comprehensive inquiry. A provincial task team has been deployed, and seasoned investigators have the clear objective of bringing the suspects to justice. They're exploring every lead, determined to resolve this heinous crime as Eastern Cape's Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, has denounced the attack and reassured the community of a relentless pursuit.

Eastern Cape police encourage anyone privy to pertinent information to reach out to the investigation team at 071 475 2292 or to report anonymously through the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. In a province striving to curtail its violent crime wave, this latest incident is a stark reminder of the prevailing challenges.