The owner of Njoms Security, a Pietermaritzburg-based company known for its viral videos of crime suspects being interrogated, has been arrested for murder.
Fifty-two-year-old Bruce Mhlongo, a former ANC security operative, faces charges for the 2022 killing of schoolteacher Thabani Innocent Zondi.
His arrest has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some calling it justice and others suggesting a possible setup.

Background: The 2022 Killing of a Pietermaritzburg Teacher

According to police, the victim, 48-year-old Thabani Innocent Zondi, was gunned down inside his vehicle at KwaPata in February 2022.
“When officers arrived, the deceased was found in the driver’s seat with multiple gunshot wounds. At least 21 cartridges were recovered at the scene,” police said.

Zondi was a teacher at Khethindlelenhle Primary School and was described by colleagues as a calm, respected educator. The motive for his killing has not been revealed.

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Police Statement and Arrest of Njoms Security Owner

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Organised Crime: Murder and Robbery Unit arrested Mhlongo on Thursday, 16 October 2025, following a lengthy investigation.
Police say the case was referred to their provincial unit, which obtained a warrant of arrest after linking the suspect to the 2022 shooting.

Mhlongo appeared in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 17 October 2025, and was remanded in custody. He is expected to apply for bail on 30 October 2025.

Investigators have also confirmed that Mhlongo may be connected to other serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery in Plessislaer and Richmond. His company’s firearms have been seized for ballistic testing.

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Public Reactions and Divided Opinions on The Arrest of Bruce Mhlongo

The arrest has divided public opinion across KwaZulu-Natal and social media.
Some believe Mhlongo’s arrest is a political or criminal setup meant to silence his outspoken stance against crime. Others say justice must follow its course.

One supporter wrote, “Let’s hope and pray this is not foul play to silence him for fighting crime.” Another comment read, “They pinned this on him to stop him because he was exposing dirty cops.”

Others, however, urged patience and respect for due process. “Let the investigation continue. If he is innocent, the truth will come out,” one Facebook user posted.

Concerns Over Security Companies and Firearm Misuse

Mhlongo’s arrest has revived debate over the misuse of legally registered firearms belonging to security companies.
Past investigations, including the Moerane Commission into political killings, revealed that some companies were allegedly involved in assassinations and criminal activity using licensed weapons.

Experts warn that without stronger oversight, the line between security enforcement and criminality remains dangerously thin.

What Happens Next

The case has now moved to the next phase as prosecutors prepare to oppose bail later this month. Police say further arrests may follow depending on the outcome of ballistic tests.
Community members are watching closely, hoping the case will bring either accountability or clarity in a province long scarred by violence and mistrust.