Tweefontein – Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt for the gunmen who fatally shot 45-year-old Kosabo “Koos” Thugwana – a member of the national executive committee of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa).
Thugwana was fatally shot while inside his Toyota Fortuner at Section G of Tweefontein, near KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga on Sunday night, (5 December 2025).
Thugwana was dropping one of his friends off when he was gunned down.
Thugwana died inside his car.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said the deceased sustained several gunshot wounds and was declared dead on the spot.
“An investigation is underway following an incident whereby Mr Kosi Thugwana was found fatally shot inside his vehicle,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
“The vehicle was found idling with his lifeless body inside, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
“Police also seized some cartridges found at the scene and he was unfortunately certified dead by the paramedics.”
Brigadier Mdhluli said a team of “dedicated police investigators who are experts” have been assembled under the leadership of Acting Mpumalanga Police Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi to track down the ruthless gunmen.
“As of now, no arrests have been made however the SA Police Service assures the community that every effort is being made to solve this case, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown at this stage,” Brigadier Mdhluli said.
The provincial police management has expressed hope in the police team’s probe.
Major General said: “We are confident of some breakthrough because our officers are working tirelessly to gather evidence and pursue all possible leads to ensure a swift apprehension of the suspects involved in this case”.
At this stage, the motive behind the fatal shooting remains unclear but a subject of further probe with the police.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, Phillip Mahlangu, said untimely death had robbed them of a brilliant young man who was versed about traditional matters.
In addition to his Contralesa role, Thugwana was chairperson of the Ndzundza Fene Tribal Council under the Ndebele tribe in Thembalethu near KwaMhlanga.
Mahlangu urged the police to leave no stone unturned to trace and arrest the killers so that they could face justice.
Police are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the assailants to call Tweefontein police on 013 947 6000 or national police line 08600 10111.
A memorial service of the slain Thugwana is scheduled to be held at the newly built Thembalethu Community Hall in Thembalethu near KwaMhlanga on Thursday, (9 January 2025), at 1200.
He will be sent to his final resting place on Sunday, (12 January 2025).
