Justice Minister condemns murder of prosecutor Elona Sombulula

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi says acts of violence will not intimidate or undermine the work of the NPA following the murder of rising star prosecutor Elona Sombulula in Ngcobo, Eastern Cape.

NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said the killing of Sombulala, 30, who was acting as Regional Court prosecutor, has sent shock waves through the legal fraternity. 

“It is with deep shock and profound sadness that the NPA confirms the untimely death of Elona Sombulula, a young District Court prosecutor, based in Ngcobo Magistrate’s Court. He was just 30 years old. He joined the NPA through the aspirant prosecutor programme in 2022. He was acting as Regional Court prosecutor when he was shot on the evening of Tuesday.

“Our thoughts are first with Sombulula’s family, friends, and colleagues. We send our condolences to you at this unimaginably difficult time,” said Tyali.

Director of Public Prosecutions of the Eastern Cape, Barry Madolo, expressed shock and dismay and said that the young prosecutor was one of the NPA’s rising stars. 

“(He was) a dedicated public servant who served the people of South Africa with integrity and courage,” said Madolo.

The NPA further said: “The South African Police Service is working tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The NPA will work closely with the SAPS. We will not rest until those responsible face justice. The motive for the killing is unknown and we urge restraint as a thorough investigation is conducted to establish the facts.”

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our employee, whose life was cut short far too soon," Kubayi added.

The Minister has called on all law enforcement agencies to work with urgency to uncover the circumstances surrounding Sombulula’s death and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. 

The Ministry added it stands in solidarity with the NPA and all prosecutors who continue to serve the public with integrity and courage under often difficult and dangerous conditions.

National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi condemned the killing in the strongest terms. 

“Any attack on a prosecutor is an attack on the rule of law, on justice and on the very foundation of our constitutional democracy. Our deepest condolences to Mr Sombulula’s family and loved ones. We will honour his memory by continuing the work he so bravely carried out,” said Batohi.

Cape Times