A joyous tradition turned into a scene of horror in Hlokozi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday, August 24, as two brothers were brutally murdered while en route to a lobola payment. The brothers were sent to deliver R50,000 as part of the lobola negotiations for their sibling’s intended marriage, but their journey ended in tragedy.
Thandokuhle Dlamini, aged 38, and Mzwandile Dlamini, 45, were tasked by their brother, Bongani Dlamini, 41, to complete the lobola payment for his future wife. The brothers left their residence in Nhlwangwini early that morning, only to meet their untimely deaths at the gate of their future sister-in-law’s home.
Family members reported that the brothers were ambushed by unknown assailants who opened fire, killing them on the spot and making off with the lobola money. The attack has left the family devastated and in disbelief. “We rushed to the scene and learned that the attackers were in a VW Polo without a license plate,” said a relative.
Initial suspicions pointed to a targeted attack rather than an act of robbery tied directly to the lobola negotiation. According to the family, Thandokuhle had been involved in a controversial tender dispute, which may have prompted the attack. “We believe this shooting might be connected to a tender that Thandokuhle was awarded. He was aware of people seeking him out due to this tender and had been in hiding, only coming home for the lobola payment,” the relative explained.
The family clarified that the incident was unrelated to the marriage or the intended bride. “The couple is heartbroken and not in a position to discuss the matter further,” the relative added.
KwaZulu-Natal police have confirmed the details of the incident. Colonel Robert Netshiunda stated that the victims were standing at the gate when they were ambushed by six armed suspects. The attackers were driving two VW Polo vehicles, one dark grey and the other navy blue. The police have opened two counts of murder and are actively investigating the case.
“Preliminary information suggests that the victims were robbed of the lobola money before the suspects fled the scene. We are appealing to anyone with information to come forward,” said Colonel Netshiunda.
The community remains in shock over the brutal killings, and the police continue their efforts to apprehend those responsible.
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