KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa — July 2025
A shocking tragedy has gripped the KwaZulu-Natal community following the brutal murder of Linamandla Mngomezulu, a 24-year-old construction site manager from Vryheid. His lifeless body was discovered in Ulundi, days after he was reported missing—sending waves of grief and disbelief across the province.
Timeline of Linamandla’s Disappearance
Mngomezulu was last seen on Sunday, 29 June 2025, after visiting a suspended co-worker at a rented room in Mashona, White City, Ulundi. He had traveled there in a white Toyota company bakkie, which also went missing at the time.
According to family spokesperson Ms. Nokubekezela Mngomezulu, Linamandla had gone to meet the former colleague regarding an undisclosed matter. “We don’t know what they were meant to discuss, but Linamandla had been called to the suspect’s place. Sadly, that was the last anyone saw of him,” she said.
When he failed to return home, his family tracked his phone, which last pinged in Mandeni, and opened a missing person case at Mandeni SAPS.
Gruesome Discovery in Ulundi
On Tuesday morning, police made a horrifying discovery: Linamandla’s body was found in the suspect’s rented room. His hands and feet were tied, and he had sustained severe blunt-force injuries, allegedly inflicted with a metal object. The crime scene was described as bloody and disturbing, with visible signs of a violent struggle.
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Arrest Made – Vehicle Found in Inanda
The suspect, a man originally from Mzimkhulu, was arrested shortly after the stolen bakkie was recovered in Inanda. Investigators believe he attempted to sell the vehicle for R10,000, allegedly claiming that the company owed him money.
“He wasn’t even the one who suspended him. Linamandla was just the site manager,” said Ms. Mngomezulu. “We are heartbroken and still trying to understand why this had to happen.”
Family Extends Gratitude
The Mngomezulu and Ngcobo families expressed heartfelt thanks to SAPS, Missing Person South Africa, the public, and Linamandla’s employer for their unwavering support during the investigation. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Police Confirm Ongoing Investigation
Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo, spokesperson for SAPS, confirmed that a murder case has been opened at Mahlabathini SAPS and that investigations into the motive and circumstances are ongoing.
🕊️ A Life Cut Short
Linamandla Mngomezulu was a young man with a bright future ahead of him. His senseless killing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues. As the province mourns, one message remains clear: justice must prevail.
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