Fugitive in IFP deputy chief whip’s murder killed in police raid

Zamani Ngila Ximba, who was wanted in connection with the murder of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Deputy Chief Whip Khethamabala Sithole, was fatally wounded during a police operation in Duduza, Ekurhuleni, in the early hours of Thursday, 09 October 2025.

SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said that they received intelligence that Ximba was hiding in a house in Duduza.

"As the police entered the house, Ximba pointed a firearm at the police, and the police shot at him. Upon retrieving the firearm from Ximba, it was discovered that what he pointed at the police was a replica firearm," says Masondo

IOL previously reported that Ximba had been on the run since 31 May 2025, when Sithole and two others were shot at a hostel in Katlehong. The Gauteng police had offered a R60,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

With previous reports, two other suspects were arrested shortly after the incident and charged with murder and attempted murder.

"Bhekukuhle Sithole aged 36 and MKhululi Sithole aged 33, were arrested within a few days and charged with murder and attempted murder," added Masondo

"They are still in custody and their next court appearance is on 20 November 2025".

Zamani Ximba, who was identified as the third suspect, was issued a warrant of arrest.

His death brings closure to a months-long manhunt led by the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigations team in collaboration with Crime Intelligence.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified of the incident and is expected to conduct a review of the police action.

IOL NEWS